Skip to main content

Applewood TCDS

Technology & Career Development Schools

Homepage

Student

Career Pathways

The Connecticut Technical Education and Career System offers students a wide range of hands-on career pathways designed to prepare them for in-demand industries. Programs span fields like automotive repair and refinishing, automotive technology, and diesel and heavy-duty equipment repair, giving students real-world experience with engines, diagnostics, and advanced repair techniques. In the construction and trades sector, students can explore architecture, building and civil construction, carpentry, electrical, HVAC, and landscape design, developing technical skills that lead directly to high-demand careers or advanced certifications. For students interested in science and health, programs like bioscience and environmental technology, biotechnology, and veterinary science combine classroom learning with lab and fieldwork to build a foundation for careers or further education in rapidly growing fields.

  • Heating and Cooling

    The Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Cluster provides students with theoretical knowledge and skills for careers in water and air pollution control, recycling waste disposal, public health issues, as well as offering the opportunity to perform a variety of tasks that include helping to develop, maintain and manage the forest and natural environment. CTECS graduates may complete competency credentials or certification eligibility for entry-level employment in a variety of healthcare and bioscience settings or continue their studies at post-secondary institutions. CTECS students concentrate their studies and earn a Career and Technical certificate in the programs listed below. 


    Learn More About The Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Cluster


    Two scientists in lab coats examine a microscope, with a third person working in the background.Bioscience and Environmental Technology
    The environment is directly impacted by human interaction. The Bio-Science program is specifically designed to observe, test and solve environmental issues that affect our living space. Through project based learning, students study all habitats and plant and animal life that inhabits each.


    Two scientists in lab coats examine a water sample near a river.Biotechnology
    Biotechnology is the manipulation (as through genetic engineering) of living organisms or their components to produce useful usually commercial products (as pest resistant crops, new bacterial strains, or novel pharmaceuticals) and thus improve the lives of living organisms.


    A veterinarian and assistant examine a dog in a clinic setting.Veterinary Science
    The Veterinary Science trade program is designed to prepare students to enter directly into the workforce in the Veterinary Medicine field. A balance of theoretical and hands-on training is used to ensure these students are ready for immediate employment or to further their education in a post-secondary school.


     

  • Architecture

    The Architecture and Construction cluster provides students with the theoretical knowledge and skills for entry-level employment in the residential, commercial, and industrial construction areas or in post-secondary institutions. CTECS students concentrate their studies and receive a Career and Technical certificate in one of the following programs:

    Architecture

    Students enrolled in the CTECS Architecture program are given instruction in and demonstrate skills and knowledge for entry-level employment in the rapidly changing area of sustainable building technologies. Students will be instructed in program safety and the proper use and care of drafting tools and equipment.

    Building and Civil Construction

    Building and Civil Construction teaches students residential homebuilding carpentry in addition to metal framing, commercial ceiling systems, hardware installation, concrete forming and pouring, rebar installation, structural steel installation, and construction welding techniques. Career pathways are endless and include residential construction, commercial building construction, and civil construction.

    Carpentry

    The Carpentry program in the CTECS is organized around the fabrication and construction of residential housing and related remodeling. The course content begins with the preparation and use of hand tools, portable power tools, and various stationary hand and power machinery. Fabrication methods are initiated with an introduction to wood types, quality, applications, and harvesting techniques.

    Electrical

    CTECS Electrical program prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to install, operate, maintain, and repair electric apparatus and systems such as residential, commercial, and industrial electric-power, and DC and AC motors, controls, and electrical distribution panels. Low voltage wiring including CAT 6 is taught and practiced, along with instruction and use of test equipment.

    Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC)

    Students enrolled in the CTECS Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) program will obtain instruction and demonstrate skills and knowledge in construction safety, measuring and blueprint reading, calculations of ductwork & heating systems with an emphasis on both heat loss and heat gain heating and cooling calculations. Students are also instructed on Domestic and Commercial Refrigeration systems, Gas, Oil Heating.

    Landscape Design, Installation and Equipment

    The opportunities in the “Green Industry” are far and wide. The Landscape Design, Installation and Equipment program teaches the care and maintenance of outdoor space; the design and installation of hardscape; and the operation, repair, and maintenance of related power equipment.

    ``

  • Information Technology

    The Information Technology cluster equips students with hands-on experience and technical knowledge for careers in programming, networking, cybersecurity, and digital media. Through project-based learning and real-world applications, students gain the skills needed for entry-level employment or to pursue further studies at post-secondary institutions. CTECS students concentrate their studies and earn a Career and Technical certificate in one of the following programs:

    �� Programming & Software Development

    Students learn programming languages, app development, and software design while working on real-world coding projects. The program emphasizes problem-solving, teamwork, and preparing for industry certifications.

    �� Networking & Cybersecurity

    This program focuses on configuring, maintaining, and securing computer networks. Students gain experience with routers, switches, firewalls, and learn how to identify and prevent cybersecurity threats.

    �� Digital Media Technology

    Students explore web design, video production, and graphic design while learning to use industry-standard tools. The program combines creativity with technical skills to prepare students for media and design careers.

  • Health Technology
  • Arts, AV Technology & Communications
  • Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics

Latest News

Stay up to date on exciting news, events and more with the ParentSquare app!

May 1, 2025

Welcome to ParentSquare!

Our school is using ParentSquare! We are excited to let you know that this year we'll be using ParentSquare to communicate with you at the school, and in your classrooms and groups. ParentSquare pr. . .