Empower Your Future: How Career and Technical Education Classes are Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders in Federal Way

Federal Way students are diving into exciting hands-on activities each day. They’re flying drones, extracting DNA, doing metal fabrication, and honing their skills on advanced flight simulators. These experiences are all part of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes offered by Federal Way Public Schools, which aim to equip students with essential skills for the future workforce.

With 82 different CTE courses, students have the chance to earn at least one Industry Recognized Certificate (IRC) in their area of study. From grades 7 to 12, CTE courses focus on employable skills that promote college and career readiness. Students engage in valuable work-based learning activities, such as career research, guest speakers, field trips, and internships.

A recent visit to the classrooms revealed some interesting projects. In the BioMed Engineering class at Todd Beamer High School, students created clay models of hearts in collaboration with the pottery class. They used 3D computers to explore heart anatomy, gearing up for real-life dissections of sheep hearts. Earlier this year, students studied fingerprint analysis from a mock crime scene and practiced suturing techniques. Some even explored genetic modification by making E. coli bacteria glow green!

Cody Burton, the class instructor, reflected on his own high school experience. He wished he had these opportunities sooner, noting, “I didn’t do that until my junior year of college.” Freshman Brandon Vazquez is already engaged in the biotech curriculum and learning about the necessary EMT training to become a firefighter. Tenth grader Shastelin Frias Romo is aiming for a career in medicine, inspired to help non-English speakers, thanks to her experiences with her grandparents in medical settings. Another student, Ula Maulolo, is passionate about forensic science and aims to become a medical examiner to help families find closure.

Meanwhile, in the Air Force JROTC program at Todd Beamer, students prepared for their first drone competition. They’ll showcase their flying skills and teamwork. Major Barry Jones and Sergeant Wayne Lott lead the program with a focus on developing responsible citizens who learn valuable life skills like confidence and teamwork. Students like Faith Vakasilimiratu and Lasrie Naigulevu appreciate how the program has boosted their confidence and sense of community, even participating in outreach to younger students on topics like leadership.

At Decatur High School, the automotive program has undergone significant updates. Here, students gain hands-on experience that aligns with industry needs. Ryan Harris, the program’s instructor, has created three tracks: heavy diesel, fabrication, and automotive. He’s also establishing partnerships for work experience and certifications that prepare students for well-paying jobs straight out of high school.

At Kilo Middle School, CTE classes introduce students to technology. In one class, students programmed robots while others navigated flight simulators that real pilots use, simulating various weather conditions and airports. These engaging activities lay a solid foundation for future careers.

To celebrate science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), Federal Way Public Schools will host its annual exploration night on March 13. This year’s event will emphasize the integration of arts into STEM education, promoting creativity in problem-solving and design thinking.