CTE has opportunities for every student
February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, so it’s the perfect time to spotlight Arlington ISD’s robust CTE program. But in Arlington ISD, CTE isn’t just a February focus – it’s a year-round priority.
“CTE programming is the catalyst through which students gain the knowledge and skills that prepare them to successfully transition to college, career, or both after high school by engaging in relevant, rigorous, and real-world learning experiences,” said Ginger Polster, principal of the Arlington ISD Dan Dipert Career and Technical Center.
Arlington ISD’s CTE programs are designed with every student in mind. Whether students plan to enter the workforce immediately after graduation or pursue higher education, CTE courses provide technical expertise, academic knowledge and essential employability skills that give them a strong head start. Students gain hands-on experience that translates directly into careers, while college-bound students can explore potential majors and strengthen their applications through completion of a CTE program.
Why CTE Matters
Arlington ISD’s mission is simple: prepare every student for success after graduation.
Career and technical education is about doing just that by bridging classroom learning with real-world application. Through hands-on instruction and industry exposure, students build practical skills while also laying a solid foundation for continued education.
“CTE empowers students by connecting what they learn in the classroom to real-world experiences,” said Dr. Candace McGowan, Arlington ISD’s CTE director. “Our programs prepare students for successful careers while also supporting their future educational goals.”
At its core, CTE is about opportunity for every student.
What Arlington ISD’s CTE Program Offers
With CTE courses available at every high school campus, dozens of programs of study, and a state-of-the-art Career and Technical Center, Arlington ISD’s CTE program is built to serve a wide range of interests and career goals. Highlights include:
34 Programs of Study
Arlington ISD offers 150 high school CTE courses across 34 programs of study. From agribusiness, architecture and culinary arts to cybersecurity, nursing and welding, students can explore careers in nearly every industry. The district also offers specialized police and fire academies for students interested in public safety careers.
“By providing multiple CTE pathways, each student has the opportunity to personalize their education based on their career interests and unique learning needs,” Polster said.
45 Industry Certifications
Industry certifications give students a competitive edge when entering the workforce. Arlington ISD offers 45 industry certification exams — and covers 100% of the cost for students. Certifications span a wide range of fields, including technology, cosmetology, floral design, sports medicine, phlebotomy and more.
On-the-Job Training
Many CTE courses provide hands-on, job-ready training in fields like construction, culinary arts, cosmetology, and automotive technology. Students also have access to internships and practicums with local partners, including Lockheed Martin, Bell, Texas Live, Medical City Arlington, veterinary clinics, and other area businesses.
Technical Dual Credit
Through technical dual credit opportunities, students can earn college credit while still in high school. Courses are taught by college instructors either on Arlington ISD campuses or on college campuses and include subjects like accounting, computer-aided drafting and design, metal repair, business administration, computer graphics, and criminal justice.
College Preparation
For students planning to attend college, CTE courses provide a meaningful head start. Classes are aligned with postsecondary majors in areas like health sciences, information technology, communications, agriculture, public services, and education – helping students enter college with direction and confidence.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
The Arlington ISD Dan Dipert Career and Technical Center is a 169,800-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility serving juniors and seniors from all district high schools. The center offers 68 CTE courses across 27 programs of study and features 16 specialized labs, additional computer and science labs, and an open-concept design that creates a college-like learning environment.
In addition, the Agricultural Science Center – a net-zero facility – provides students across the district the opportunity to raise animals and participate in agricultural education. The center includes flexible-fencing pens for goats and sheep, heifer pens, rabbit pens, an animal exercise area, two large classrooms and a metal construction lab.
There truly is something for every student. February may be CTE Month nationally, but in Arlington ISD, it’s CTE Month all year long.