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 Study | Industry-Recognized Credentials |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| 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 (PLTW) | Certificated Nursing Assistant (CNA) *only offered at Coolidge Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) *only offered at Eastern First Aid and CPR |
| Business Management | PMI Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) Microsoft Office Expert (MOS Expert) Excel Microsoft Office Expert (MOS Expert) Word |
| Carpentry | Occupational 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 Maintenance | CompTIA IT Fundamentals CompTIA A+ CompTIA Network+ |
| Cosmetology | District of Columbia Cosmetology Operator |
| Culinary Arts | National 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 Technology | Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10 Certification Electrical Apprenticeship Certificate Level 1 NCCER – Electrical, Level 1 NCCER – Electrical, Level 2 |
| Finance | Intuit QuickBooks Certified User (QBCU) Microsoft Office Expert (MOS Expert) Excel |
| Graphic Design & Illustration | WD 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 Services | AHLEI Certified Guest Service Professional AHLEI Certified Front Desk Representative |
| Law Enforcement | First Aid and CPR |
| Networking | Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) |
| Teacher Education & Training | ParaPro Certification |
For additional information about Industry-Recognized Credentials please contact the Director, Career Preparedness Programs, Crystal Smith (Crystal.Smith4@k12.dc.gov)