CTE Industry-Recognized Credentials

CTE programs of study provide students with the opportunity to earn industry-recognized credentials (IRCs). These essential components of career readiness allow students to leave high school with an important set of tools ready to pursue a variety of postsecondary options.

What is an industry-recognized credential?
An IRC is verification of an individual’s knowledge, qualifications and/or competence in a specific skillset. They can take many forms, including certifications, certificates, and licenses. 

Why are industry-recognized credentials important?
Preparing for and earning an IRC is a great way to expand knowledge, skills, and increase job, career advancement, and overall post-secondary opportunities. Students learn more deeply by practicing and applying their knowledge through work and employment experiences They learn about workplace expectation and professional skills needed for employment, as well as learning about career pathways. Employers regularly use certifications as selection criteria for hiring, promotion, and/or salary increases.

In school year 2023-24, our high school CTE programs of study will offer the following industry-recognized credentials:

Program of StudyIndustry-Recognized Credentials
Aerospace Engineering (PLTW)Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) in AutoCAD
Autodesk Certified User (ACU) in AutoCAD
Architectural DesignAutodesk Certified Professional (ACP) in Revit Architecture
USGBC LEED Green Associate
National Green Infrastructure Certification
Audio/Video ProductionAdobe Certified Associate (ACA) – Premiere Pro
Automotive TechnologyASE Suspension and Steering
ASE Brakes
ASE Manual Drive Train and Axles
ASE Electronic/Electrical Systems
ASE Heating and A/C
BarberingDistrict of Columbia Barber Operator
Biomedical Science (PLTW)Certificated Nursing Assistant (CNA) *only offered at Coolidge
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) *only offered at Eastern
First Aid and CPR
Business ManagementPMI Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
Microsoft Office Expert (MOS Expert) Excel
Microsoft Office Expert (MOS Expert) Word
CarpentryOccupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10 Certification
NCCER – Carpentry, Level 1
NCCER – Carpentry, Level 2
Civil Engineering and Architecture (PLTW)Autodesk Certified User (ACU) in AutoCAD
Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) in Revit Architecture
Computer Integrated Manufacturing (PLTW)Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) in Revit MEP Electrical
Autodesk Certified User (ACU) in AutoCAD
Computer MaintenanceCompTIA IT Fundamentals
CompTIA A+
CompTIA Network+
CosmetologyDistrict of Columbia Cosmetology Operator
Culinary ArtsNational Restaurant Association ServSafe Manager
National Restaurant Association ManageFirst Professional®
Prostart Level I and II
Digital Electronics (PLTW)Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) in Revit MEP Electrical
Autodesk Certified User (ACU) in AutoCAD
Early Childhood Education (Child Care and Development)Certified Child Development Associate (CDA)
Electrical TechnologyOccupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10 Certification
Electrical Apprenticeship Certificate Level 1
NCCER – Electrical, Level 1
NCCER – Electrical, Level 2
FinanceIntuit QuickBooks Certified User (QBCU)
Microsoft Office Expert (MOS Expert) Excel
Graphic Design & IllustrationWD Certified Web Design Certification
Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) – Dreamweaver
Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) – Photoshop
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVACR)Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10 Certification
Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) Refrigerant Handling (EPA 608)
NCCER – HVAC, Level 1
EPA HVAC Certification
Hospitality ServicesAHLEI Certified Guest Service Professional
AHLEI Certified Front Desk Representative
Law EnforcementFirst Aid and CPR
NetworkingCisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Teacher Education & TrainingParaPro Certification

For additional information about Industry-Recognized Credentials please contact the Director, Career Preparedness Programs, Crystal Smith (Crystal.Smith4@k12.dc.gov)