CTE & Workforce Pathways Explained – Your Different Path

Future vets in action! Our CTE students are practicing their skills, from wrapping bandages to giving pups the care they deserve.

Not every student thrives in a traditional classroom. And that’s okay.

At Options For Youth (OFY), we believe that being different is not a disadvantage. In fact, it’s a strength. Some students are builders. Others are helpers, artists, problem-solvers, or caretakers.

That’s why OFY offers Career Technical Education (CTE) and Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs—pathways designed to meet students where they are and help them move forward with purpose.

If you’re looking for something beyond the typical high school experience, CTE and WIOA offer hands-on, career-focused options that prepare students for real-world success.

What Is Career Technical Education (CTE)?

CTE  programs at OFY combine academics with career training, giving students the opportunity to explore in-demand fields while still in high school. These programs are designed for students who learn best by doing—those who want to build, create, heal, or serve their communities.

Each CTE pathway focuses on skill development, industry certification, and direct preparation for college or the workforce. The current offerings include:

Whether you’re interested in healthcare, technology, business, education, or the arts, CTE gives you:

• Skills that matter – From learning how to take vitals in a Nursing pathway to styling hair in Cosmetology, you’ll gain real, transferable skills.
• Industry insight – Courses are aligned with in-demand careers so you know you're learning what employers actually need.
• Certifications – Many CTE programs prepare you to earn industry-recognized credentials while still in high school.

Construction | Building Path

This pathway introduces students to the building and construction trades, covering topics such as hand and power tools, safety protocols, and building materials. Students who complete the program are eligible to earn a Level 2 Carpenters Union Certificate and OSHA Certification. The course also fulfills the F-level Fine Arts requirement.

• Level 2 Carpenters Union Certificate
• OSHA Certification
• Tools, materials, and personal protective equipment provided

Our CTE Cosmetology students are building their skills and creativity—practicing hair styling techniques that prepare them for future careers in the beauty industry!

Cosmetology | Helping Path

Students interested in personal care services can gain hands-on experience in Cosmetology. The program prepares them for the Nail Technician License exam, approved by the Board of Cosmetology and Barbering, and includes Barbicide Certification training.

• Nail Technician License preparation
• Barbicide Certification
• Industry-grade tools and equipment
  
  

Information Technology | Creative Path

Designed for students pursuing a future in tech, this pathway prepares students for IT roles such as Help Desk Technician or Support Specialist. Students may earn credentials like the ITF+ or CompTIA A+ Certification and fulfill their high school technology requirement.

• G-Suite Competency
• ITF+ / CompTIA Certification
• Meets high school technology graduation requirement

Our students are learning the art of suturing and building the skills to care for patients with confidence.

Nursing | Health Path

This health-focused pathway gives students an introduction to the medical field. It includes CPR and AED certification and prepares students for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam. It also fulfills the D-level Science requirement.

• CNA test preparation
• CPR/AED Certification
• Medical supplies and personal protective equipment provided
  
  

Veterinarian | Nature Path

For students interested in animal care and agriculture, this pathway offers training aligned with veterinary and animal sciences. Students prepare for the Approved Veterinary Assistant exam and receive First Aid certification for cats and dogs.

• Approved Veterinary Assistant exam preparation
• Cat and Dog First Aid Certification
• Materials and supplies included

What Is WIOA and How Does It Help?

WIOA (Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act) is a federally funded program designed to strengthen the workforce by providing youth and young adults with access to education, job training, and employment services. OFY is an exclusive WIOA partner, which means all students have the opportunity to participate in this supportive, career-focused program.

By partnering with WIOA, Options for Youth - Acton and Duarte ensures that our students benefit from a comprehensive approach to education that aligns with current workforce needs. WIOA helps out-of-school youth and young adults ages 14–24 prepare for the workforce through:

A student is teaming up with a construction partner to learn what it takes to build, fix, and maintain paths—and explore careers in construction, maintenance, repair, and logistics.

WIOA Program Features

• Paid Work Experience: Includes internships, job placements, and hands-on training to help students build their resumes.

• Industry Certifications: Opportunities to earn recognized credentials that increase employability.
  Career Support: Resume assistance, interview coaching, access to career fairs, and networking events.

• Soft Skills Development: Training in communication, collaboration, and leadership—skills that are essential in any workplace.

• One-on-One Career Coaching: Students are matched with a dedicated coordinator to guide them toward their college or career goals. As an OFY student, your WIOA journey is guided by a Career Pathways Coordinator who checks in with you regularly, helps you stay on track, and connects you to opportunities that match your interests and goals.

WIOA Career Paths at OFY

Students enrolled in WIOA choose from a broad range of industry-aligned career paths. Each path is designed to help students focus their academic and occupational training around specific fields of interest. These include:

Building/Fixing Path

• Industrial and Engineering Technology
• Construction, Maintenance, and Repair
• Operations and Logistics

Creative Path

• Arts, Communication, and Technology
• Broadcasting and Journalism
• Web and Digital Media
  
  

Health Path

• Health Sciences
• Therapeutic Services
• Biotechnology and Informatics
  
  

Nature Path

• Natural Resources
• Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences
• Environmental Services
  
  

Business Path

• Business Management
• Finance, Marketing, and Accounting
• Human Resources and Operations
  
  

Helping Path

• Human Services
• Counseling and Mental Health
• Teaching and Early Childhood Education
  
  

Additional WIOA fields include government and public administration, law and public safety, hospitality, tourism, STEM, manufacturing, and more.

Why It Matters

Success doesn’t always follow a traditional path. CTE and WIOA are designed for students who want something different—whether that means entering the workforce after graduation, earning certifications while still in high school, or simply finding a learning environment that fits their strengths.

By offering career exploration, hands-on training, and individualized support, OFY helps students move forward with confidence—on a path that makes sense for them.

Take the Next Step

These opportunities reflect a deep commitment to students’ futures, ensuring they leave high school not only with an education, but with real skills, certifications, work experience, and a clear sense of direction. It’s not just about helping students succeed today—it’s about equipping them to thrive tomorrow.

If you or your student are interested in learning more about Career Technical Education or WIOA programs at OFY, we encourage you to reach out to your teacher, counselor, or Career Pathways Coordinator. Our team is here to help you explore your options and take the next step toward a meaningful future.

Visit ofy.org to get started.