Career and Technical Education
Exploring pathways. Building skills. Creating futures.
The Steamboat Springs High School Career & Technical Education (CTE) program gives students real-world learning experiences that connect classroom instruction to future career and college opportunities. Through a variety of hands-on pathways such as health science, business, engineering, education, construction trades, media and technology, natural resources, outdoor recreation leadership, and biotechnology, students explore their interests, develop technical skills, and earn valuable industry certifications.
Students can participate in project-based learning, concurrent enrollment courses with Colorado Mountain College, and work-based experiences such as internships and apprenticeships. Whether they’re designing in CAD, studying healthcare, managing a business, exploring natural resources, or leading in the outdoors, SSHS students graduate ready to succeed in college, career, and life.
Certifications available through CTE include NCCER CORE, SolidWorks Associate, BACE, CPR/AED, Wilderness First Aid, Leave No Trace, Welding, Seal of Climate Literacy, and more.
CTE Pathways Slideshow Public by Kirsten Brendtro
CTE Pathways at SSHS
Business Pathway
The Business Pathway helps students learn real-world skills in marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship. Students explore how businesses work, gain experience using technology and managing money, and can earn college credit through Colorado Mountain College. This pathway builds a strong foundation for students interested in careers or college degrees in business, accounting, or management.
Business Pathway Information Sheet
Education Pathway
The Education Pathway helps students explore careers in teaching and working with children. Students learn about child development, classroom instruction, and multicultural education while earning college credit through Colorado Mountain College. This pathway is ideal for students who want to become teachers, early childhood educators, or school administrators.
Education Pathway Information Sheet
Natural Resources Pathway
The Natural Resources Pathway courses focus on the environment, sustainability, and conservation. Students study topics like ecosystems, climate literacy, and resource management while earning college credit through Colorado Mountain College. This pathway prepares students for future careers in environmental science, conservation, and wildlife management.
Natural Resources Pathway Information Sheet
Outdoor Recreation Leadership Pathway
The Outdoor Recreation Leadership Pathway combined adventure and leadership with outdoor education. Students gain hands-on experience in backpacking, wilderness navigation, and recreation management, earning certifications like Leave No Trace. This pathway is great for students interested in guiding, recreation management, or environmental leadership.
Outdoor Recreation Leadership Pathway Information Sheet
Engineering Pathway
The Engineering Pathway introduces students to the world of design, problem-solving, and innovation. Students learn about physics, math, and computer-aided design (CAD) while earning the SolidWorks Associate Certification. This pathway sets the foundation for college degrees and careers in mechanical, civil, architectural, and electrical engineering.
Engineering Pathway Information Sheet
Biotechnology Pathway
The Biotechnology Pathway gives students the chance to explore biology, genetics, and laboratory science. Through hands-on lab experiences, students learn real-world skills used in health, science, and research fields while preparing for the Biotechnology Aptitude & Competency Exam (BACE). This pathway supports careers in biotechnology, biomedical research, and forensic science.
Biotechnology Pathway Information Sheet
Health Science Pathway
The Health Science Pathway prepares students for careers in healthcare and medicine. Students learn about anatomy, physiology, and patient care while earning certifications such as CPR/AED, Wilderness First Aid, and Certified Nursing Aide. This pathway leads to opportunities in nursing, medicine, public health, and emergency services.
Health Science Pathway Information Sheet
Construction Trades Pathway
The Construction Trades Pathway teaches students practical skills in woodworking, welding, and construction. Students work with tools and materials, explore design concepts, and can earn NCCER certifications in core construction, welding, and carpentry. This pathway prepares students for careers in the trades, construction management, and engineering technology.
Construction Trades Pathway Information Sheet
Media & Technology Pathway
The Media and Technology Pathway helps students develop digital skills in design, communication, and technology. Students use creative software to explore graphic design, video production, and digital media while earning college credit through Colorado Mountain College. This pathway opens doors to careers in marketing, media, and communications.
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Work-Based Learning at Steamboat Springs High School
Our Work-Based Learning program connects local businesses with students through internships, job shadows, guest speaking, and project partnerships. These experiences help students build real-world skills while supporting local industry needs. Partnering with us strengthens the community, builds a future talent pipeline, and inspires the next generation of professionals.