Are you a high school junior or senior thinking about your future after graduation? The construction and industrial sectors are booming, with projections showing nearly a 4% growth each year. By 2025, an estimated 3.5 million jobs in manufacturing and building trades will need to be filled across the United States. This presents a significant opportunity for young people looking for stable and well-paying careers. Camden County Technical Schools (CCTS) is stepping up to meet this demand by offering a unique Career Connection Program designed to equip high school seniors with the essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive in these industries.
What is the Career Connection Program?
The Career Connection Program at Camden County Technical Schools is an after-school initiative tailored for high school seniors. It’s designed to provide a robust foundation in various construction trades, offering a pathway to immediate employment, pre-apprenticeship opportunities, or further education at the college level. The core mission of this program is to deliver specific and comprehensive skills training in construction fields, ultimately leading to meaningful employment or entry into apprenticeship programs upon graduation. Beyond benefiting individual students, the program aims to forge strong partnerships with employers, contribute to the local and state economy, and help alleviate the national shortage of skilled workers in these critical sectors.
What Career Paths are Offered?
While the specific program offerings can vary from year to year depending on enrollment and staffing, the Career Connection Program focuses on in-demand construction and industrial trades. These programs are meticulously designed to provide participants with both hands-on technical skills and crucial workplace readiness competencies. Students will not only learn the practical aspects of their chosen trade but also develop essential soft skills such as problem-solving, effective time management, and resume building. These skills are vital for making graduates competitive and confident when entering the job market. It’s important to note that program spaces are limited, and specific programs may close once capacity is reached, so early application is encouraged. Also, students should be aware that transportation is not provided for this after-school program.
Why Choose the Career Connection Program?
This program offers a powerful head start for high school seniors. It acts as an alternative pathway, providing career and technical preparation in occupations that are not only highly skilled but also in high demand. The Career Connection Program bridges the gap between high school and future career aspirations, whether students choose to enter the workforce directly, pursue a pre-apprenticeship or apprenticeship, or continue their education at a two- or four-year college. The partnership between Camden County College, Camden County Technical Schools, and local sending school districts creates a seamless career pathway, allowing students to transition smoothly from secondary to post-secondary education and into fulfilling careers.
Who is Eligible for the Program?
The Career Connection Program is primarily open to high school juniors from any high school in Camden County who are looking to attend during their senior year. Depending on availability, seniors from neighboring counties in South Jersey may also be eligible to apply. To maintain eligibility, students must be on track to graduate, maintain a good attendance record, and have no disciplinary issues. This ensures that participants are committed and ready to make the most of this valuable opportunity.
What are the Benefits of Participating?
Participating in the Career Connection Program expands horizons and provides a significant advantage for students as they prepare for their future. For college-bound students, it enriches their background by providing practical skills relevant to various post-secondary programs and prepares them for the demands of college-level coursework. Upon successful completion of the program, students can:
- Secure entry-level, full-time employment in their trained field.
- Enter apprenticeships in industrial trade areas.
- Attend the Career and Technical Institute at Camden County College for advanced training.
- Enroll in two- and four-year colleges while working part-time in their trained career area.
Career Placement Assistance
Graduates of the Career Connection Program gain entry-level skills highly sought after by employers. CCTS and Camden County College have established strong partnerships with business owners, industry professionals, labor unions, educational agencies, civic organizations, and local government agencies. These collaborations ensure the curriculum is relevant and that students have access to valuable mentorship. CCTS maintains a vast database of employers in New Jersey and beyond and offers comprehensive career center services. Students receive assistance with job searching, resume creation, and developing essential workplace readiness skills, including mastering interviewing techniques to enhance their success in securing employment.
Ready to Learn More?
If you’re a high school junior or senior interested in jumpstarting your career in the growing construction and industrial sectors, the Career Connection Program at Camden County Technical Schools offers an incredible opportunity. For more information, reach out to the program team by emailing [email protected] or calling 856-767-7000, Ext. 5267. Take the first step towards a successful and fulfilling future today!
