Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses prepare a workforce across a wide range of industries and occupations to give students the skills they need to be successful in whatever they choose. Delivered during the school day and in their schedules, CTE students earn industry certifications and licenses, associate's degrees, and dual credits toward their bachelor's degrees.
Columbia City High School offers CTE courses in 24 different pathways in partnership with our community. While most opportunities happen during the student's junior and senior years, they enroll in a pathway and begin their related classes as early as their sophomore year. Students can even graduate with more than one CTE pathway completed! CTE courses are available to everyone, which means 98% of our students are enrolled in at least one CTE course. 248+ certifications have been awarded since the 2021 school year.
We take pride in knowing our certifications are taught by CTE professionals who are licensed teachers and many who started teaching after years of experience in their respective fields.
CTE students are often connected to esteemed Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs), which enhance student learning through contextual instruction, applied learning and real-world application. Our CTSOs at CCHS are Nationally Ranked and continue to grow opportunites for students.
Columbia City High School CTSOs
Business Professionals of America (BPA)
Family Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA)
National FFA Organization (FFA)
HOSA Future Health Professionals
Connect with a CTSO and learn more here.
National Technical Honors Society
Introduced to Columbia City High School in 2025, the National Technical Honors Society celebrates students who demonstrate excellence in technical education, leadership and professional skills. The CCHS Chapter joins a national organization that has recognized more than 1 million members since 1984. Learn more
Through pathways, CCHS offers CTE training in Fire and Rescue, EMT, CNA, Cosmetology, Precision Agriculture, Education, and more!
Contacts
Jennifer Reiff, Career and Technical Education (CTE) Director | Send Email
Lori Heuer, Talent Development Director | Send Email
Carrie Laursen, WCCS CTE Administrative Assistant | Send Email
CTE News
CCHS Inducts First National Technical Honors Society Chapter
Columbia City High School Certifies Cohort of Welding Students, Celebrates Perfect Pass Rate
CCHS Hosts Annual College and Career Fair
CCHS Student Earns First Cosmetology License Before Graduation
Columbia City High School and Garrett High School Announces Groundbreaking CDL Program for High School Students
Columbia City High School Students Win Golden Shovel Competition
Whitley County Consolidated Schools Awarded for Excellence in Student Pathways
Exciting New Automotive Technician Career and Technical Education Opportunity, Hiring Instructor
CCHS Fire Students Purchase Fire Truck from Columbia Township
CCHS Becomes Second in the State for Student Organ Donation Advocates
CCHS Celebrates Industry Signings and Internships
