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 Study | Industry-Recognized Certifications |
|---|---|
| Aerospace Engineering (PLTW) | Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) in AutoCAD Autodesk Certified User (ACU) in AutoCAD |
| Architectural Design | Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) in Revit Architecture USGBC LEED Green Associate National Green Infrastructure Certification |
| Audio/Video Production | Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) – Premiere Pro Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) – After Effects Apple Final Cut Pro X |
| Automotive Technology | ASE Suspension and Steering ASE Brakes ASE Manual Drive Train and Axles ASE Electronic/Electrical Systems ASE Heating and A/C |
| Barbering | District of Columbia Barber Operator |
| Biomedical Science | Certificated Nursing Assistant (CNA) *only offered at Coolidge started SY 20-21 Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) *only offered at Eastern First-aid/CPR |
| Carpentry | OSHA 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 Development | Council 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 Technician | CompTIA IT Fundamentals CompTIA A+ CompTIA Network+ |
| Cosmetology | District of Columbia Cosmetology Operator |
| Culinary Arts | National 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 Media | WD Certified Web Design Certification Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) – Dreamweaver Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) – Photoshop |
| Electrical Technology | OSHA 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 Sustainability | National Green Infrastructure Certification |
| Finance | Intuit 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 Services | Certified Guest Service Professional |
| Law Enforcement | First Aid and CPR |
| Networking | Cisco 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.