CTE Industry-Recognized Certifications

District of Columbia Public Schools Career and Technical Education programs of study provide students with the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications in accordance with Perkins V (ii) mandating the provision of “technical skill proficiency or a recognized postsecondary credential, which may include an industry-recognized credential, a certificate, or an associate degree;”.

In SY20-21, DCPS’ CTE programs of study will offer 19 industry-recognized certifications.

What is an industry-recognized certification?
An industry-recognized certification is verification of an individual’s knowledge, qualifications and/or competence in a specific skillset.

Why are industry-recognized certifications important?
Preparing for and earning an industry-recognized certification is a great way to expand knowledge, skills, and increase workforce, career advancement, and overall post-secondary opportunities.

  • Certifications verify mastery of skills
  • Certifications can expose individuals to diverse career prospects
  • Employers regularly use certifications as selection criteria for hiring, promotion, and/or salary increases

Provided below are the CTE industry-recognized certifications offered at DCPS and their affiliated CTE Programs of Study.

Program of StudyIndustry-Recognized Certifications
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
Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) – After Effects
Apple Final Cut Pro X
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 ScienceCertificated Nursing Assistant (CNA) *only offered at Coolidge started SY 20-21
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) *only offered at Eastern
First-aid/CPR
CarpentryOSHA 10
NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) Carpentry, Level 1
NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) Carpentry, Level 2
Child Care and DevelopmentCouncil for Professional Recognition Certified Child Development Associate (CDA)
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 Maintenance TechnicianCompTIA IT Fundamentals
CompTIA A+
CompTIA Network+
CosmetologyDistrict of Columbia Cosmetology Operator
Culinary ArtsNational Restaurant Association ServSafe Manager
NRA (National Restaurant Association) ManageFirst Professional® (MFP) Credential
Prostart Level I and II
Digital Electronics (PLTW)Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) in Revit MEP Electrical
Autodesk Certified User (ACU) in AutoCAD
Digital MediaWD Certified Web Design Certification
Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) – Dreamweaver
Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) – Photoshop
Electrical TechnologyOSHA 10
Electrical Apprenticeship Certificate Level 1
NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) Electrical, Level 1
NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) Electrical, Level 2
Environmental SustainabilityNational Green Infrastructure Certification
FinanceIntuit QuickBooks Certified User (QBCU)
Microsoft Office Expert (MOS Expert) Excel
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVACR)OSHA 10
ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America) Refrigerant Handling (EPA 608)
NCCER HVAC, Level 1
EPA HVAC Certification
Hospitality ServicesCertified Guest Service Professional
Law EnforcementFirst Aid and CPR
NetworkingCisco Certified Entry Network Technician (CCENT) *Discontinued in 2020
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

For additional information about Industry-Recognized Certifications, contact the CTE Curriculum Specialist, Iris Wilson.