Career and Technical Education

Discover interests. Build real-world skills. Prepare for college, careers, and beyond.

Federal Way Public Schools' Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs provide students with opportunities to explore their interests, develop real-world skills, and discover how classroom learning connects to future careers. Through hands-on learning, industry-aligned courses, and career-connected experiences, students build technical skills, leadership abilities, and professional skills that prepare them for success after high school.

Our CTE programs are strengthened through partnerships with local business and industry leaders. A districtwide General Advisory Committee and Program Advisory Committees made up of local industry partners provide guidance, support, and expertise to help ensure our programs reflect current workforce needs and the skills employers value. These partnerships help create meaningful learning experiences that connect students with real-world applications and prepare them for college, careers, and beyond.

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Your CTE Journey

FWPS students can begin exploring career interests as early as sixth grade through hands-on courses that introduce them to a variety of industries and skills. From early exploration to real-world application, CTE helps students build the confidence and skills they need to pursue college, careers, and a bright future.

Middle School CTE

Middle school CTE courses provide students with opportunities to explore career interests through hands-on learning experiences. These introductory courses help students build foundational skills and discover career areas they may want to pursue in high school.

Explore Middle School CTE Courses

High School CTE

High school CTE courses are organized into Programs of Study that allow students to explore career interests in greater depth. Students can build technical skills, earn dual credit, pursue industry-recognized certifications, and participate in career-connected learning experiences.

Explore High School Programs of Study

Explore CTE Programs of Study

Available to high school students only. Course offerings vary by school.

FWPS offers over 85 unique CTE courses, organized by Program of Study and 16 nationally recognized career clusters.

Agriculture Education

Explore careers related to agriculture, natural resources, and environmental sciences.

BROWSE COURSES

Business & Marketing

Develop skills in entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, and business operations.

BROWSE COURSES

Family & Consumer Sciences

Explore careers in education, hospitality, human services, and family sciences.

BROWSE COURSES

Health Sciences

Prepare for careers in healthcare through hands-on learning and industry-aligned experiences.

BROWSE COURSES

Skilled & Technical Sciences

Build skills in areas such as art, construction, manufacturing, transportation, and technology.

BROWSE COURSES

STEM

Explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through innovative, project-based learning.

BROWSE COURSES

A photo collage showing students in Technical Theater, Culinary Arts, and Medical courses.

Explore CTE by High School

Download high school CTE guides to see available Programs of Study and course offerings.

Explore CTE by Specialized Program

FWPS offers additional CTE programs to prepare scholars for specific careers, many of which are only offered at one high school.

Agricultural Sciences Program

Agricultural Sciences Program

Available at: ✅ Decatur HS

The Agricultural Sciences Program consists of courses in Horticulture, Animal Science, Urban Agriculture, and Agricultural Leadership. These courses offer students the unique opportunity to experience agriculture in a hands-on setting with several unique experiences and opportunities ranging from an urban farm complete with livestock to a fully functional greenhouse. Students learn the fundamentals of both plant and animal sciences and have the opportunity to participate in Future Farmers of America (FFA) - the program's Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO).

Automotive, Diesel & Manufacturing Pathways

AUTOMOTIVE, DIESEL, AND MANUFACTURING pathways

Available at: ✅ Decatur HS

The Automotive, Diesel, and Manufacturing Pathways offer 3 one-year automotive career training programs that provide hands-on experience, industry-recognized certifications, and direct connections to high-demand careers in automotive, diesel, and advanced manufacturing. Students gain real-world skills and may qualify for apprenticeships or internships with industry leaders.

Program Partnerships:

Ford ACE (Automotive Mechanics): Prepares students for careers as Ford-certified technicians with dealership apprenticeship opportunities.
Papé Kenworth (Heavy Diesel Mechanics): Focuses on diesel technology, offering hands-on training and apprenticeships in the heavy equipment and trucking industry.
Boeing CORE PLUS (Automotive Fabrication): Develops skills in aerospace and advanced manufacturing, including fabrication, precision measurement, and industry-standard processes.

National Academy Foundation (NAF) Programs — Bridging Classroom to Career

The National Academy Foundation (NAF) Programs offer rigorous, career-focused education designed to prepare students for success in high-demand industries.

Our NAF academies provide students with dynamic, industry-aligned programming that bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world career preparation. Through industry-aligned curriculum and hands-on experiences, students engage in internships, mentorships, and work-based learning opportunities that ensure they gain valuable industry exposure and develop the professional skills needed for future success in the workforce or postsecondary education.

A male student wearing safety goggles uses a microscope in a classroom.

Academy of Biomedical sciences

Available at: ✅ Decatur HS ✅ Todd Beamer HS

This academy prepares students for healthcare careers through hands-on training, certifications, and exposure to medical professionals. In partnership with Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH), students engage in job shadows, field trips, and can earn a Community Health Worker certificate through VMFH and Morehouse School of Medicine.

Academy of STEM

Available at: ✅ Federal Way HS

This academy develops students' technical and problem-solving skills through real-world, project-based learning, industry mentorships, and industry-recognized certifications. This program partners with the University of Washington (UW) Tacoma's Computer Science Program, which provides guidance and advising while connecting students to college and career pathways in technology and engineering.

Students in a Computer Science classroom sit at laptops while the teacher points to code on a smart board

A female student uses a drawing pad to create an illustration on the computer.

Academy of Visual Arts

Available at: ✅ Thomas Jefferson HS

This academy nurtures creativity and innovation, offering students hands-on experience in digital media, graphic design, and visual storytelling through real-world projects, portfolio development, and industry collaborations.

Pre-Apprenticeship Programs — Building a Skilled Future

A female student uses a tape measure in a construction classroom.

CONSTRUCTION PRE-APPRENTICESHIP

Available at: ✅ Federal Way HS

This state-recognized program provides students with a pathway into the skilled trades, equipping them with hands-on experience, industry-recognized credentials, and opportunities for college credit. This program is designed for students interested in pursuing careers in construction, carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and other building trades. It is the ideal launchpad for students who want to enter the workforce with high-demand skills or continue their education in the building trades.

Comprehensive Trade Skills Training: Students develop hands-on expertise in construction fundamentals, including tool usage, blueprint reading, safety protocols, and industry best practices.
Industry Certifications & College Credit: Successful completion of the program leads to industry-recognized credentials and dual credit through articulation agreements with local colleges, giving students a head start in their postsecondary education.
- OSHA 10 & OSHA 30: workplace safety training
- Flagger Certification: traffic control for work zones
- Forklift Certification: safe operation of heavy equipment
- Harness Training: fall protection for job site safety
Work-Based Learning & Industry Exposure: Students participate in a variety of career-focused activities, including:
- Guest Speakers: hear from local construction firms and trade unions
- Field Trips: visit active job sites, career fairs, and training centers
- Hands-on Projects: experience simulations of real-world construction work
- Networking Opportunities: connect with industry professionals and potential employers
Real-World Construction Projects: Students gain practical experience by building tiny homes, applying their skills in carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and structural design to create functional, real-world housing solutions.

ELECTRICAL PRE-APPRENTICESHIP

Available at: ✅ Thomas Jefferson HS

This course supports students interested in entering the electrical trades by preparing them for the Electrical Interim Credentials exam. In partnership with IBEW Local 46, Build2Lead, and Washington Applied Math Council, students gain targeted academic support in math and electrical theory, aligned with the requirements of local electrical apprenticeship programs.

Practice Exams and Test-Taking Strategies: Students complete coursework and receive coaching on how to approach each section of the test effectively.
Technical Math Instruction: Focused support in algebra, geometry, and basic trigonometry, which are essential for success on the apprenticeship exam.
Introductory Electrical Concepts: Foundational training in electrical systems, circuitry, and safety to build students' confidence and industry readiness.
Mentorship from Industry Professionals: IBEW and Build2Lead representatives provide guidance, answer questions, and help students understand career opportunities in the electrical field.
Connection to Apprenticeship Pathways: Students completing the prep course are well-positioned to apply to and succeed in registered apprenticeship programs after graduation.

Students practice wiring and connections.

Project Lead the Way (PTLW) — Innovating STEM Education

Project Lead the Way® (PLTW) is a nationally recognized, hands-on STEM curriculum designed to ignite students' passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Offered in both middle and high schools, PLTW provides engaging, real-world challenges that develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and technical skills essential for future careers. Through hands-on projects, industry-aligned coursework, and career exploration, students gain invaluable experience that prepares them for postsecondary education and the workforce.

PLTW Programs empower students to think critically, collaborate, and develop the skills necessary for success in STEM careers.

A male student operates a flight simulator

Middle School PLTW Programs:

Flight & Space (Kilo MS): Explores aerodynamics, space travel, and aviation technology through hands-on simulations and design challenges.
Design & Modeling (Kilo MS, FWPA, TAF@Saghalie): Introduces students to engineering concepts, 3D modeling, and the design process to create innovative solutions.
Medical Detectives (FWPA): Students investigate medical cases, analyze disease outbreaks, and explore human body systems using real-world diagnostic techniques.

HIGH SCHOOL PLTW PROGRAMS

PLTW Engineering (Decatur HS, Federal Way HS, Todd Beamer HS, Thomas Jefferson HS): Focuses on applying engineering principles, advanced problem-solving, and industry tools such as CAD software to real-world design and innovation challenges.
PLTW Biomedical Sciences (Decatur HS, Federal Way HS, Todd Beamer HS): Provides hands-on experience in medical research, diagnostics, and healthcare innovations, preparing students for careers in medicine, biotechnology, and health sciences.

Two female students work to build a structure.

ProStart Culinary Arts Program — Preparing Future Culinary Professionals

pROsTART cULINARY pROGRAM

Available at: ✅ Decatur HS ✅ Federal Way HS ✅ Thomas Jefferson HS

The ProStart Culinary Arts Program is a two-year, industry-driven program that prepares scholars for careers in the restaurant and food service industry. Through a combination of hands-on training, real-world business experience, and industry mentorship, students develop essential culinary and hospitality skills that set them apart in the workforce.

With ProStart, students gain the experience, confidence, and certifications needed to launch a successful career in the culinary and hospitality industries:

Comprehensive Culinary Training and Certification: Students learn food preparation, safety and sanitation, nutrition, and restaurant operations using industry-standard equipment and techniques. At the end of the program, students will have access to obtain a Washington (WA) Food Worker Card and National Restaurant Association (NRA) ServSafe Certificate, recognized by employers nationwide.
Real-World Catering Experience: Students participate in running a school-based food catering business and complete a job shadow with a local restaurant or hospitality partner.
Business & Leadership Skills: In addition to culinary expertise, students gain knowledge in business math, cost control, customer service, and leadership - critical skills for success in the food service industry.

Teacher Academy — Inspiring the Next Generation of Educators

Teacher Academy

Available at: ✅ Decatur HS ✅ Federal Way HS ✅ Todd Beamer HS

Teacher Academy is a hands-on, career-focused program designed to inspire and prepare students for future careers in education. This program provides real-world teaching experience, professional skill development, and opportunities to earn college credit.

Teacher Academy equips future educators with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to make a meaningful impact in the classroom:

Internship, Classroom Experience & Mentorship: Students complete an in-district internship at an elementary or middle school, working alongside a mentor teacher to gain firsthand experience in lesson planning, classroom management, and instructional strategies.
Education Foundations & Professional Growth: Coursework explores current issues in education, child development, and best practices for high-quality instruction.
College Credit & Career Advancement: Through an articulation agreement, students who complete the program can earn tech-prep college credit, giving them a head start in their postsecondary education and teacher certification pathways. Successful graduates of the course are encouraged to return to FWPS when they complete their teaching certificate and are guaranteed an interview for any applicable teaching positions.