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WILLIAMSPORT AREA
SCHOOL NEWS
570-327-5500 • wasd . org
WAHS CELEBRATES CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION MONTH
Career and Technical Education ( CTE ) is shaping the workforce of tomorrow , and Williamsport Area High School is at the forefront . In February , WAHS highlighted its CTE offerings that equip students with hands-on experience , industry-recognized certifications , and real-world learning opportunities .
With 15 specialized programs , WAHS prepares students for success in high-demand fields , including accounting , automotive mechanics , biotechnology , commercial art , computer information technology , construction trades , culinary arts , early childhood education , health professions , homeland security , engineering and robotics , precision machining , and welding technology . Recently , WAHS adopted a professions in education program , which focuses on the theory and practices of learning and instruction in the field of education . Combined , these programs provide pathways for students to earn free college credit , participate in workbased learning or obtain industry certifications . “ Our CTE programs are designed to meet the evolving needs of today ’ s employers ,” said WAHS CTE Director Matt Fisher . “ By offering hands-on training and connecting students with local industry mentors , we ensure graduates are career-ready and equipped with skills that translate directly into the workforce .”
As industries nationwide face a growing labor shortage - projected to reach 6 million unfilled positions by 2032 , according to a Lightcast study - CTE programs play a crucial role in closing the skills gap . WAHS is committed to preparing students to enter the workforce with confidence , whether they start a career immediately , pursue higher education , or enroll in specialized training . Fisher believes industry partnerships are key to the program ’ s success . “ Our strong relationships with local businesses allows for our curriculum to remain aligned with current workforce demands , and emerging technologies ,” he said . “ By collaborating with mentors and internship partners , we ’ re building a pipeline of skilled graduates ready to make an impact .”
During the 2023-2024 school year , 650 students - 43 % of WAHS ’ s student population - were enrolled in a CTE program , earning over 660 industry credentials . Since 2018 , overall program enrollment has grown by 18.5 %, reflecting growing student interest and the district ’ s investment in expanding programs . Fisher believes key factors behind this growth include the introduction of the homeland security program in 2019 , increased industry collaborations , and facility upgrades .
To support growing enrollment , the district is set to begin a $ 3 million expansion and renovation of the high school ’ s welding facility this spring . The project will improve ventilation , create a dedicated classroom space , add welding booths , and modernize equipment . The expansion is projected to be complete by the start of the 2025-2026 school year .
“ Providing students with state-of-the-art learning environments ensures they graduate with a competitive edge ,” Fisher said . “ We ’ re committed to growing and adapting our programs so that every student has the opportunity to thrive .”
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