Career and Technical Education served 1,669 students in grades 9-12 and 566 in grades 6-8. Over 90% of the students who graduate with a concentration in Career and Technical Education are either employed and/or continuing their education one year after graduation. The experience that students gain also results in cost-savings to the LEA as Construction and Masonry classes are responsible for many school projects. Computer Application classes develop and maintain web sites for McDowell High School and have developed a site for the YMCA. The Automotive Technology lab is in the process of being nationally certified through NATEF which will enhance the employability of our Automotive Technology students after graduation.

Career and Technical Education oversees more than $110,000 annually in grant monies through the Workforce Investment Act and the Tech-Prep grant. Working through the McDowell Economic Development Association and the McDowell Chamber of Commerce, McDowell County Schools has met with local industries to identify workforce development concerns that may be addressed through the Career and Technical Education program.

The McDowell High School Vocational Department offers an array of different courses to help students develop skills and career awareness and valuable school-to-work experiences. Student course offerings consist of student co-op (work study), apprenticeships, job shadowing, and live work products. Within the workforce development framework, the following clubs enhance community involvement for students: VICA, DECA, FHA, HERO, FBLA and the Vocational Honor Society.

For more information, call Doug Gouge at 828-659-3667 or Mary Finley at 828-652-3321.

Courses are offered in the following pathways:

Auto Body Repair
Auto Technology
Business
Child Care
Computers
Construction/Carpentry
Cosmetology
Culinary
Drafting
Graphics/Communications
Electricity
Home Economics
Health Occupations
Marketing
Masonry
Metals
Principles of Technology
Technology of Education
Welding