Career & Technical Education

The CTE Department at Tunkhannock Area High School equips students with real-world skills, hands-on training, and industry-recognized certifications to prepare them for college, careers, and lifelong success.

Programs of Study

  • Automotive Technology
  • Business Technology
  • Co-Op Education
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Engineering Technology
45 +

COURSES OFFERED IN CTE

5

PROGRAMS OF STUDY

50 +

INDUSTRY CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED

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CTE Concentrators

CTE Department

The Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department at Tunkhannock Area High School is dedicated to preparing students for success in college, careers, and life by providing hands-on learning experiences and real-world skills. Through a variety of industry-aligned programs, students gain practical knowledge, explore career pathways, and earn valuable certifications while still in high school.

Our department offers a wide range of pathways, including but not limited to: Business and Marketing, Engineering, Early Childhood Education, Culinary Arts, Automotive Technology, Welding, Metal Working and Building Construction Trades. Each pathway combines rigorous academics with technical training, project-based learning, and opportunities for internships or work-based experiences.

CTE teachers are experienced professionals who bring industry expertise into the classroom, ensuring students are equipped with current skills and practices. Our partnerships with local businesses, community colleges, and trade organizations help bridge the gap between education and employment, giving students a head start on their future careers.

Whether students plan to enter the workforce directly after graduation, pursue a trade, or continue their education, the CTE Department empowers them with the tools, confidence, and credentials they need to succeed.

Automotive Technology

  • Automotive Technology 1

    This course is introductory but challenging and highly competitive. Up to 80 students will take this course prior their junior year but only a selected group of students will be recommended for Auto Tech 2. The areas covered in this course are: careers in the automotive industry, workplace skills, working safely in the shop, tools and equipment, basic math theories used in the shop, automotive systems and preventive maintenance.

  • Automotive Technology 2

    The areas covered in this course include brake systems, drum brakes, disc brakes, tires and wheels, suspension and steering, and front end alignment. Basic electrical systems and introduction to engine performance will also be covered.

  • Automotive Technology 3

    This course is a continuation of Auto Technology 2. The areas covered in this course are ignition systems. Ignition system diagnosis and service, fuels and other energy sources, fuel delivery systems, electronic fuel injection diagnosis and repair, intake and exhaust systems, emission control systems diagnosis and repair, on-board diagnostic systems diagnosis and repair, antilock brake systems alignment and PA State Inspection. Students who pass the State Inspection Test will receive a “PA Vehicle Safety Inspection License” when they become 18 years old.

  • Automotive Electronics

    This course covers general electrical system diagnosis including, digital volt-Ohm meter operation, Ohm’s Law, batteries, starting systems, charging systems and lighting, as well as, miscellaneous accessories. Students will build simple circuits and learn diagnostic strategies using factory wire schematics. Student will learn to draw wiring schematics and design circuits using advanced Ohm’s Law to determine systems requirements.

  • Automotive Diagnostic Systems

    This course is designed to enhance students’ knowledge of the electrical and on-board diagnostic systems used in modern vehicles. Lighting systems, electrical instrumentation, electrical accessories, restraint systems, air bags, as well as electricity as it relates to On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) 1 and 2 systems are covered in depth. Students are taught a direct approach to engine performance and emission analysis using scan tools, five gas analyzers, evaporation/emission (EVAP) testers, lab scopes, and digital multi-meters. The goal of this course is to train technicians to diagnose quickly and accurately.

Business Technology

  • Introduction to Business & Personal Finance

    This course introduces students to the basic business concepts that will help them understand how a business survives in today’s economy and the role consumers play in the same economy. Students will learn how to balance a checkbook, invest in savings and the stock market, use credit and credit cards, compute a paycheck, and buy insurance. Students will also learn how to create a resume and participate in a job interview. Extensive use of business technology tools will be used throughout the course. A job shadowing experience may be offered in conjunction with our School-to-Work department.

  • Entrepreneurship

    This course takes students step-by-step through the entire process of starting and owning a business. Students create their own “fantasy” business by selecting a product or service to sell, researching the industry, determining customer base and competition, marketing, financing, managing employees, interpreting financial records, and more. Along the way, students learn about the stock market, personal finances, advertising, spreadsheets, desktop publishing, and gain insight into their own entrepreneurial talents and creativity. Special presenters, speakers and field trips are offered to see first hand how real businesses operate.

  • Accounting 1

    This course gives students an introduction to accounting as a career and provides students with the tools to determine if a business is making a profit. Accounting will be especially useful if students plan to go to college to study a business-related field. The entire accounting cycle for a one-owner business and a merchandising partnership is included in the content of this course. Students learn computerized general ledger accounting as well as the traditional manual system, along with enhanced computer skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

  • Accounting 2

    As a follow-up to Accounting 1, this course will offer instruction in partnership and corporate accounting. Accounting applications on the computer will dominate the course content as students develop a portfolio of results with computerized payrolls, integrated general-ledger systems, and spreadsheet applications typical of accounting practice. Students explore managerial accounting and use accounting information to enhance typical business decisions. This includes budgeting for a business, deciding whether to invest in new equipment, pricing a product/service based on costs, handling inventory costs, and breakeven analysis. Presentations include business professionals and practitioners of accounting in real world environments. 

  • Accounting 3

    The course details the conceptual framework of accounting and generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Throughout the course students will utilize many accounting and business ratios and standards to aid in making business decisions. The course includes financial accounting, managerial accounting and financial statement analysis topics.

  • Microsoft Computer Skills 1

    This course is designed to help students learn how to use the Microsoft Office software package. Students will engage in thorough exercises covering the following topics: Word, Excel, Access (database), PowerPoint, and several Integration Projects. After completing this course, students will be prepared to take the Microsoft Officer User Specialist (MOS) exams. These examinations certify and validate your skills in the Microsoft programs.

  • Microsoft Computer Skills 2

    Students who have successfully completed Microsoft Computer Skills 1 (MCS 1) are eligible for this class. This course will build on the skills learned in MCS 1 and develop advanced concepts and techniques in the Microsoft Office Program. Students will work independently to complete detailed exercises using the Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint programs. After completing this course, students will be prepared to take the Microsoft Officer User Specialist (MOS) exams. These examinations certify and validate skill levels in the Microsoft programs.

  • Business Law

    This course emphasizes laws in the business and personal world. Students will be introduced to topics that have a direct impact on their daily lives. By using case studies, present day court cases, class discussions, and mock trials, students will explore areas such as – Sources of laws, ethics, criminal and civil laws, trials, contracts, consumer protection, identity theft, and insurance laws.

  • Business Internship

    The Business Internship serves the committed (408) student during their junior and/or senior year as a project based course developed to better prepare the student for the NOCTI assessment. The program related NOCTI assessment was developed based on a Pennsylvania statewide competency task list and contains a multiple-choice and performance components. This assessment is meant to measure technical skills at the occupational level and includes items which gauge factual and theoretical knowledge. Students will be scheduled as needed to demonstrate proficiency or above on this NOCTI Assessment.

Co-Op Education

  • Cooperative Employment Skills

    This classroom course includes employment seeking and retention skills (job applications, interviews, employer-employee relations), career planning, social insurance services for workers (social security, unemployment compensation, workers compensation), income taxes, and safety. Enrollment is mandatory for all seniors participating in Co-Op Job Training.  

  • School-To-Career Internship Program

    Internships will be made available to juniors and seniors on a limited, selective basis. Internships will consist of non-paid experience directly related to the student’s career objective. The internship is expected to last from 30-90 hours during a quarter or semester. School credit of .25 will be awarded upon the return of a completed “Internship Log” to the Cooperative Education Coordinator and successful completion of the program. Students must provide their own transportation and document that they have medical coverage because workers compensation is not provided since an employer-employee relationship does not exist. The student must have good academic standing and attendance to be considered. Grades will be on a pass/fail basis. The student must be sponsored by a classroom teacher and sign the Internship Guideline agreement.

  • Job Shadowing

    This is a 1-3 day, non-paid job exploration experience to assist a student in determining or fine tuning their career path. Students MUST BE SPONSORED by classroom teacher of subject area related to the shadowing field. Students will be expected to report back to their class at the discretion of the classroom teacher. Students must document health insurance coverage since this is not an employer-employee relationship covered by workers compensation.

Culinary Arts

  • Culinary Arts 1

    This course offers students the opportunity to improve food preparation skills, practice critical decision making skills, explore nutrition choices, and apply basic science principles to food preparation.  A wide range of cooking skills will be developed with the introduction to topics in baking, such as quick breads, yeast breads, eggs, grains, and more! Hands on activities through food prep demonstrations and labs are extremely practical as well as academic. This class will help students prepare to cook for themselves on a budget.  It is a cooperative learning class with a fast pace and many opportunities for learning and tasting! 

  • Culinary Arts 2

    Students will build on skills acquired and utilized in Culinary Arts 1. This course is designed for the student who have a passion for preparing food! Creativity abounds as you “travel the world” through the tactile composition of constructing multicultural dishes that will delight and challenging. Students will navigate through a variety of fusion and trending cuisine to create edible pieces of art! Only true foodies should accept the invitation to elect this course. A true dedication to food preparation is a prerequisite for this class, as well as the ability to work independently and show passion for cooking. This class will include Chopped competitions, preparations for events, and more! 

Early Childhood Education

  • Early Childhood Education 1

    This course emphasizes the basics in child development and the experiences needed for understanding the cognitive, physical, social and emotional development of children. Students will be introduced to the study of child development and appreciate its relevance in their lives. The class helps students understand the beginnings of human life and follows the changes that take place from conception through birth and first days of life through late adulthood. This course is the first in a sequence of two classes focusing on the development and the care and education of children. 

  • Early Childhood Education 2 - Tiger Tots Learning Center

    ***Prerequisite Child Development 1 and a minimum grade of 88% NO EXCEPTIONS! 


    This PDE Approved Program of Study (POV) follows the successful completion of the Level 1 Child Development and Care 1 course. This course further prepares each students’ knowledge and skills development for the pursuit of an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and/or a child services career. The course continues to emphasize childhood development and the learning experiences necessary for a deeper understanding of the cognitive, physical, social and emotional development of preschool/young children. Students will also learn to prepare classroom curriculum and implement strategies while working with preschoolers. Students will have opportunities to apply their learning through participation and observation of children individually and in groups. Students will plan and teach theme activities two days a week to the children in the Tiger Tots Child Care Center, located at Tunkhannock Area High School. 


    This course is designed to help students apply the knowledge gained in Child Development 1 and enhance skills through direct interaction in the laboratory preschool classroom. The students, under supervision of the teacher, will operate the laboratory preschool classroom for children ages three through five years of age. The students will develop practical techniques for guiding and teaching young children and their families. Students will prepare lesson plans complete with learning activities and instructional materials that are aligned with the PA Pre-K Standards. They will also participate in discussing observations and evaluations. The course is recommended for students considering a career in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Daycare, or related fields relating to children. 

  • Child Development/Education - Internship

    This program of study along with successful completion of levels 1 and 2 continues to ready students for a career educating young children and prepares them for post-secondary Education in pursuit of an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and/or a child services career. Students will have opportunities to apply their learning through participation and observation of children individually and in groups through extended field experiences that will occur at Tunkhannock Primary and Intermediate Schools. Opportunities for additional experiences at local PA licensed child care centers and other area community programs may also be available. 

Engineering Technology

  • Foundations for Engineering

    This is a project-based course and is the foundation for other engineering technology classes. Students will be introduced to robotics, electronics, 3D printing, design challenges, computer aided drawing, model making, and laser printing projects. 

  • Discover Engineering

    This two-part project-based course is required for students pursuing the Engineering Technologies program of study. In Part-One, students explore various fields of engineering and the design process in which engineers engage. Part-Two explores reverse engineering principles through the disassembly and analysis of products. Students will also train for a CADD certification exam. 

  • Engineering Internship

    Students must choose this course multiple times in order to fulfill the entire POS task grid and prepare for the NOCTI exam. 

    This two-part project-based independent study course is required for students pursuing the Engineering Technologies program of study. In Part-One, students will train for a CADD certification exam and prepare for the NOCTI exam which measures technical skills at the occupational level. In part-two, the student will complete final training for a CADD certification and the NOCTI exams. Students will also assist the teacher with preparations for other POS courses and mentor students. Students may also participate in the Skills USA mechanical drawing contest.  

  • Electronics + Robotics

    In part-one of this course, students explore analog and digital electronics through electronics experiment and soldering practice kits. Students will also work with VEX robots and work cell accessories to learn programming skills.  If a student chooses to take Part-Two of this course, the student will independently study electrical applications included in basic residential wiring, VEX robots and VEX work cell with concentration on implementing a variety of controls such as sensors, and building a digital multi-meter will also be studied. Students may also participate in the Skills USA electronics contest. 

  • Architecture

    In this four-part course, students will be introduced to architectural drawing (Part-One) and design (Part-Two) practices and skills, manual drafting practices and skills, model building, and will learn to use AutoCAD. If a student chooses to take Part-Three and Part-Four of this course, students will independently study for the Revit Architecture User certification exam and will assist the teacher with preparations for other architecture courses and mentor students. Students may also participate in the Skills USA architectural drawing contest. 

Graphics/Drones

  • Drone Piloting & Aerial Videography

    This course is designed to introduce students to the exciting, emerging, and unbounded world of the small Unmanned Aircraft System. The course will specifically focus on quadcopter uses and begin to prepare students for a potential career path in this unique field. The instructor will lead students in learning the vast information needed to pass the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) required pilot exam called “Part 107” as well as getting some hands-on experience flying quadcopters and simulating real-world experiences and usage of this innovative technology. Focus will be placed on aerial videography, photography, and an introduction to 3D imaging pertaining to surveying and Civil Engineering while simulating real-world applications. 


    ***Students may opt to take this class a second time to hone their piloting skills and reinforce the information needed to pass the Federal Aviation Association’s (FAA) required pilot exam “Part 107”. After completing this section of the course, students over 16 can schedule a visit to an FAA authorized testing location to take the test. When passing this test, they will obtain their sUAS Pilot certification. 

  • Graphic Design 1

    Graphic Design is an introductory course that teaches students the software and tools utilized in the digital multimedia and printing fields. The focus will be on building skills using Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator and learning to prepare files for print and digital outputs. Students will also explore other fun areas in graphic design such as: screen printing, digital photography, sublimation, vinyl cutting, and basic skills in video/audio production. 

  • Graphic Design 2 - Digital Multimedia

    This course will continue the exploration of the Adobe Creative Suite with an emphasis on digital multimedia & digital printing. Students will improve the skills they learned in Graphic Design 1 continuing to develop effective designs, presentations, and compositions, and begin taking on real-world jobs for the school district, school clubs, and sports teams. In addition to advancing their video production skills, students will also get to experiment with emerging technologies such as 360o cameras creating virtual tours in a simulated VR (Virtual Reality) environment.

  • Advanced Graphics

    Advanced Graphics is designed to meet the needs of the students looking to continue taking technical computer courses in high school as well as pursuing Digital media and Printing field as a career. Each student will choose an area of interest to do an in depth study and complete projects that could lead into an Internship with the School Print Shop.

  • Computer Animation

    This course offers an introduction into the world of digital animation. Students will learn to use industry software to produce three-dimensional animated models, structures, and characters culminating in a storytelling, animated short. All aspects of the animation process will be covered from scripts, storyboards, and modeling all the way through rendering and proper video/audio composition. This course uses Autodesk Design 3Ds Max and Adobe Premier Pro software.

Metal Fabrication

  • Intro to Metal Fabrication

    This class introduces students to the basic knowledge and skills that are used in the machining and metal fabrication industry. Through classroom/laboratory activities, students will perform in the areas of metallurgy, machining, and metal fabrication. Students will learn and apply math and science principles that are used in this field. An emphasis is placed on safety and workmanship.

  • Machining and Metal Fabrication

    Individuals will use metal working skills to design, machine and fabricate a high quality product. Through classroom/laboratory activities, students will apply the design process, manual machining, welding, and metal fabrication skills. An emphasis is placed on problem solving, safety and development of professional skills.

  • Advanced Machining & Metal Fabrication

    In this course individuals will use precision manual and CNC machining, and advanced metalworking skills. In groups students will organize a company structure to design, test, and fabricate a product to solve technical problems. An emphaiss is placed on group interaction and safe working habits. 

  • CNC Machining

    In this course students will learn to use Computer Numeric Control (CNC) for machining various materials. Students will use basic Fanuc controls and advanced CAD and Cam software to design and write code to communicate with our numerous CNC machines. 

  • Metal Fabrication Internship

    A Metal Fabricating Internship serves the committed 408 Engineering student the opportunity to enhance and have their skills in all areas of the metal shop.  Time will also allow for preparation of the Engineering NOCTI exam. 

Small Engines & Building Construction

  • Small Engines & Power Equipment

    Small Engines & Power Equipment is a study of internal combustion engines and associated systems.  It includes theory and the disassembly and repair of both two and four stroke engines.  The course will cover both classroom theory and hands-on experience or small gas and/or small diesel engines.  Students will be expected to perform maintenance and systematically troubleshoot any problems associated with outdoor power equipment including, but not limited to, lawn mowers,  chainsaws, tractors, ATV’s, snowmobiles, etc. Electrical controls and hydraulic systems incorporated on outdoor power equipment will also be introduced and explored. Students will also learn basic job readiness and business skills.  The students will learn how to obtain a job, succeed in the workplace, and work with people.  They will also learn basic business, economic, marketing, sales, and customer service skills associated with operating a small business.    

  • Building Construction 1

    A fundamental course that will include basic introduction in the following areas:  basic layout and measuring to evaluate and layout building sites and masonry tool identification and usage.  Carpentry shall consist of estimating, layout, and construction of floors, walls, and rafters.  Students will also learn necessary hand and power tool skills and safety. 

  • Building Construction 2

    This course is a more in-depth study of the knowledge and skills acquired in Agricultural Construction I with the addition of electrical and plumbing. Electrical will consist of students practicing safe work habits while learning the fundamentals of residential wiring.  Plumbing will include the fundamental understanding, installation and repair of residential plumbing systems. 

  • Building Construction Internship

    Building Construction Internship serves the committed (408) student, during their senior year, as a project based course developed to better prepare the student for the NOCTI assessment. The Construction Trades General PA assessment is based on a Pennsylvania statewide competency task list and contains both multiple-choice and performance testing components. This assessment is meant to measure technical skills at the occupational level and includes items which gauge factual and theoretical knowledge. Students will be scheduled as needed to learn, practice, and demonstrate mastery of this Task List to ensure proficiency or above on this NOCTI Assessment. 

Welding

  • Welding Technology 1

    Welding Technology will include both beginning and advanced students in the same class.  The course will include classroom instruction in welding theory and practice as well as practical experience.  Much of the time will be spent on assigned jobs designed to increase the student’s skill level as he or she moves from one job to another.  After students have completed the assigned jobs, they will be required to complete a welding project. 

  • Welding Technology 2

    Welding Technology 2 will focus on advanced SMAW, GMAW, and GTAW welding techniques.  The students will follow a sequence of welds including, but not limited to, out of position stick welds, GMAW on both steel and aluminum, GTAW on both steel and aluminum, and SMAW and GTAW pipe welds.  Upon completion of assigned jobs, they will be required to complete a welding project at their skill level.  The students will also learn about welding blueprints, welding symbols, and advanced layout skills. Students will also learn basic job readiness and business skills.  The students will learn how to obtain a job, succeed in the workplace, and work with people.  They will also learn basic business, economic, marketing, sales, and customer service skills associated with operating a small business.    

Wood Technology

  • Wood Technology 1 

    This is an introduction to the basics of manufacturing with wood products. Through a project based curriculum students will learn procedures, materials, and machinery to enable the beginner to develop his or her woodworking skills. This is a prerequisite to Wood Technology II and cabinetry.

  • Wood Technology 2

    This course is a more in-depth study of woodworking tools, processes, and machinery including cabinetry skills and procedures through classroom/laboratory activities and projects.  This class compliments the knowledge and skills acquired in Wood Technology 1 while challenging students to an increased difficulty level of wood working techniques and cabinetry. 

Skills USA Chapter

This international vocational youth organization is available for students in any Career and Technology Education Program. Leadership and Technical Skills Competition take place on the district, state, and national level in over sixty categories. The motto of the organization is “Preparing for Leadership in the World of Work.”   

 

The SkillsUSA Championships is the premier showcase of America’s most highly skilled career and technical education students. It’s also one of the largest hands-on workforce development events in the world. Held in conjunction with SkillsUSA’s National Leadership & Skills Conference each June, this awe-inspiring event features more than 6,500 state champions from across the United States competing head-to-head in 114 skilled and leadership competitions. 

 

The competitions are created, overseen and judged by nearly 2,000 industry volunteers, each committed to building the next generation of skilled professionals, career-ready leaders and responsible community members our future depends on.