Pathways

A Pathway is a method of searching for a career that fits a student's interests and lifestyle and then allows the student to build academic courses around it. The Pathway recommends individual high school courses – both academic and career-related – to concentrate on which are specifically geared toward the student's chosen career. All of this planning starts as early as middle/junior high school and continues as the student advances through high school.

Educator's Guide to Pathways - PDF
Pathway STS Charts and Key - PDF
Pathways List - PDF

Skilled & Technical Sciences Education – 21 Pathways

Building Trades
Carpentry - PDF
Electrician - PDF
HVAC - PDF
Plumbing - PDF

Communication
Radio Broadcasting Technician - PDF
Television Broadcasting Technician - PDF

Mechanics & Repairs
Automotive Collision Repair - PDF
Automotive Service Technician - PDF
Electronics - PDF
Heavy Duty Diesel - PDF

Precision Production Trades
Cabinetmaking/Millwork - PDF
Design Technology (Formerly Drafting/CAD) - PDF
Graphics/Printing - PDF
Machine Tool - PDF
Welding - PDF

Personal Services
Cosmetology/Barbering - PDF
Esthetician/Nail Technician - PDF

Protective Services
Firefighting - PDF
Law Enforcement - PDF

Transportation & Material Moving
Aviation Technology - PDF

Visual Arts
Commercial Art - PDF
Commercial Photography - PDF

Our Mission:
Skilled and Technical Sciences (STS) Education prepares students for employment and/or continuing education opportunities in skilled trades and other technical occupations, as well as promoting quality programs based on recognized industry standards.

General Tips:

• The Utah Skilled and Technical Sciences Education pathways are based on the national skills standards, where applicable, and established state standards.
• Specific course offerings vary by school. Many skilled and technical science courses are also available at local colleges and ATCs. Students should see their school counselors to take advantage of these courses. Many courses offer concurrent enrollment opportunities for students and may provide a seamless transition for students in the STS programs at the college level.

Tips for Teachers and Counselors:

• By taking STS courses, students can obtain certification and be ready to work in careers such as automotive service technician, automotive collision repair, carpentry, plumbing, cabinetmaking, cosmetology, drafting, printing, machining, TV broadcasting, and welding. In addition, through the STS courses students can gain an important foundation of knowledge and skills necessary for continued education in other areas of study.
• Many of the pathways begin with an introduction course, which provides all students with an awareness of the career possibilities in that pathway along with instruction in basic principles of that career.
• To complete a pathway, students must complete the foundation courses listed as well as enough credits in the introductory and/or elective courses, which generally equals 3.00 total credits.
• Teachers can provide pathway information to students, parents, and counselors so that each student can maximize his or her educational opportunities in the STS.
• It is important for counselors to note that students interested in careers in this area of study should also take academic courses that emphasize science and math skills. Through the SEOP process, students may take advantage of courses in the STS that will count as science and math credits toward graduation.

Leadership Opportunities:
SkillsUSA is the Career and Technical Student Organization for these pathways and is an integral part of a student’s experience. SkillsUSA provides students with opportunities to develop leadership and communication skills, self-confidence, and an understanding of current industry issues and needs.

Transition to Post-Secondary and/or Career:
A variety of Work-Based Learning (WBL) experiences should be implemented throughout the pathway. WBL experiences allow students to see, firsthand, how classroom instruction connects to the world of work and future career opportunities.

Our vision is to see that every student receives the academic knowledge and technical skills needed to be successful in the STS career of his or her choice. Students will develop essential career preparation skills through technical and experiential education, as well as personal leadership opportunities.

Updated April 19, 2013