Not every student graduating from high school has the desire, and/or the resources to attend college. We aim to recruit, develop, and serve students in the various trades by promoting educational pathways to rewarding in-demand careers that lead to family sustaining wages. This is good for our youth who wish to remain in our region and benefits our community with increased skilled labor. Build Pagosa
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Preparing Pagosa Springs High School Students for a career in Building Trades, Culinary Arts & Hospitality, Health Sciences, Agriculture, and Fabrication through hands-on learning & internship experiences. Career and Technical Education

6 CTE Pathways Offered at PSHS

Skills for students and adults

Together, We Build Pagosa

Community Projects and Events

Annual Sledz on Rez Winterfest event
Annual Build Pagosa auction
Pagosa Little Free Library Project
Warming shed at ice skating rink
And more!

Internships through PSHS and PSCDC

Students learn more about these paid summer internships through their CTE instructors and HS counselor. In the Spring, the PSCDC talks with the students at the high school. Applicants identify their interests then they are matched with employers who are willing to provide training and have a need to be filled.

https://pagosaspringscdc.org/

Regional Workforce Center (Coming soon!)

As of late 2024, Build Pagosa has nearly 85% of the necessary $4.8M funding to build the planned Regional Workforce Center which will greatly increase the capacity of CTE offerings and enrollment, as well as make possible adult education in a variety of skilled trades. Grants already awarded to Build Pagosa for this project include: OEDIT Opportunity NOW ($50k), DOLA through Town of Pagosa Springs ($600k), CDS-USDA Rural Development ($1M), Boettcher Foundation ($50k), Gates Family Foundation ($40k). We are still working to close the gap and break ground. Consider a donation today!
As of late 2024, Build Pagosa has nearly 85% of the necessary $4.8M funding to build the planned Regional Workforce Center which will greatly increase the capacity of CTE offerings and enrollment, as well as make possible adult education in a variety of skilled trades. Grants already awarded to Build Pagosa for this project include: OEDIT Opportunity NOW ($50k), DOLA through Town of Pagosa Springs ($600k), CDS-USDA Rural Development ($1M), Boettcher Foundation ($50k), Gates Family Foundation ($40k). We are still working to close the gap and break ground. Consider a donation today!

Building Trades

The Building Trades pathway provides students with hands-on experience in the construction industry, teaching essential skills like framing, roofing, and painting, alongside blueprint reading, tool safety, and job site management. Students work in teams to complete real-world projects such as storage sheds and community improvements. As they advance, they explore residential construction, electrical and plumbing systems, and steel framing, while also learning mechanical drawing using both traditional tools and CAD software. The pathway also includes woodworking, where students create individual projects, mastering joinery, drilling, and finishing techniques. Graduates earn an OSHA-10 safety certification, preparing them for entry-level positions or further education in the trades.

Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources

The Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Pathway introduces students to key agricultural science areas, including Animal Systems, Agribusiness, Biotechnical Systems, Environmental Systems, and more. Students gain hands-on experience, field trips, and interact with local professionals to understand these sectors. In Animal Systems, students learn animal care, nutrition, and veterinary science, focusing on livestock production. In Plant Science, students explore plant growth and reproduction, including photosynthesis and plant propagation. Students also participate in FFA programs and supervised agricultural experience projects. This pathway provides a balance of technical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for careers in agriculture, food production, natural resources, and environmental management.

Hospitality

The Hospitality Pathway introduces students to the diverse sectors of the hospitality industry, including food and beverage, lodging, travel, tourism, and recreation. Students explore essential business concepts such as management, human resources, accounting, sales, and marketing while learning key skills needed for success in this field. Topics include food safety and the prevention of foodborne illnesses. Students participate in field trips to local businesses, applying classroom knowledge in real-world settings. A Food Handlers Certificate is available. The Catering course builds on this foundation, focusing on food preparation, restaurant operations, and hands-on experience in a commercial kitchen, preparing students for careers in hospitality and culinary arts.

Health Sciences

The Health Science Pathway offers a broad introduction to healthcare careers, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed for success in this field. Students explore the human body’s structure, diseases, nutrition, and health conditions through research, labs, and coursework. The pathway also covers medical terminology, ethics, and patient care skills. Students gain hands-on experience as patient care technicians (PCT), learning skills like taking vitals, phlebotomy, and using medical equipment. This program prepares students for careers in healthcare by providing foundational knowledge and experience, with opportunities for certification and real-world practice in medical settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics.

Transportation

The Transportation pathway teaches foundational skills in automotive service and repair, including shop safety, tool use, and service manual interpretation. Students gain hands-on experience diagnosing and repairing engines, brake systems, suspension, tires, and electrical components. As they advance, students explore complex systems like engine performance and electrical diagnostics, practicing the repair and inspection of various vehicle components. Customer service and documentation skills are also emphasized to ensure professional communication in the field. With 80% of the program spent in the lab, students apply theory to practice, reinforcing their knowledge and preparing for entry-level careers in the automotive industry.

Computer Science

The Computer Science Pathway introduces students to coding, technology, and design. In courses like Computer Science Principles, students learn to design and code apps, exploring fundamental concepts and the impact of technology. The Robotic and Game Design course gives hands-on experience building and programming robots and games using block and text coding, 3D printers, and laser cutters. The Drones course covers drone operation, including maneuvers, obstacle courses, and drone soccer, preparing students for certification as licensed drone operators. Multimedia Design teaches skills in video editing, graphic design, web design, and podcasting, enabling students to communicate and express ideas through digital platforms. This pathway provides a strong foundation for careers in technology, engineering, and digital media.