Celebrating Career & Technical Education Month

At Insight Academy of Arizona (ISAZ), we are committed to preparing our students for the dynamic demands of today’s workforce through our comprehensive Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. These programs offer students hands-on learning experiences in various high-demand fields, equipping them with practical skills and industry-recognized certifications that pave the way for future success.

Hands-On Learning in High-Demand Fields

Our CTE programs provide students with immersive, practical experiences across several key industries, such as:

   •    Agriscience: Students explore modern agricultural practices, including mechanics and technical systems, preparing them for careers such as environmental science technicians and water quality managers.

   •    Culinary Arts: This pathway equips students with fundamental skills in safety, sanitation and food production, opening doors to roles like food and beverage managers, pastry chefs and caterers.

   •    Engineering and Technology: Students gain a solid foundation in engineering principles and design, preparing them for positions such as manufacturing technicians, process improvement technicians and engineering technicians.

   •    Health and Human Services: This pathway prepares students for careers in health care, including roles like pharmacy technicians, nursing assistants and medical assistants.

   •    Law and Public Safety: Students learn the essentials of protecting community members, leading to careers such as police officers, animal control officers and customs inspectors.

By engaging in these hands-on learning opportunities, our students not only acquire technical expertise but also develop essential soft skills such as communication, problem-solving and teamwork, which are highly valued by employers.

Early Career Exploration and Certification Opportunities

Starting in middle and high school, students at ISAZ can explore various career pathways, allowing them to identify their interests and strengths early on. Many of our CTE programs offer industry-recognized certifications, giving students a competitive edge as they enter the workforce or pursue further education.

Aligning with Arizona’s Workforce Needs

Our CTE programs are designed to meet Arizona’s evolving workforce demands, focusing on sectors such as advanced manufacturing, renewable energy and information technology. By aligning our curriculum with the state’s economic priorities, we ensure that our students are well-prepared to contribute to Arizona’s growth and innovation.

Celebrating CTE Month

As we observe CTE Month this February, we celebrate the achievements of our students and educators who make these programs successful. Their dedication not only prepares students for rewarding careers but also drives economic growth and addresses skill shortages within our state.

At ISAZ, we are proud to offer CTE programs that empower students to lead, achieve and inspire. By investing in these programs and encouraging participation, we are building a workforce equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow while fostering individual success.

Let’s honor the promise of CTE and celebrate the students shaping our future—one certification, one goal and one success story at a time.

Author Bio:

Shawn Garrelts serves as the CTE Assistant Academic Administrator for Insight Academy of Arizona. With extensive experience in science education, Shawn is dedicated to designing engaging learning materials that enhance student understanding and application of new knowledge. She aims to create a classroom environment where students feel safe to take risks, ask questions, and connect course material to their own life experiences, fostering curious and lifelong learners. In her spare time, Shawn enjoys spending time with her family and pets, and she is committed to providing STEM opportunities for students while continuing her own journey as a lifelong learner.