Career Preparation (9-12)

In Michigan, career preparation equips high school students with the tools they need to succeed after graduation—whether in college, skilled trades, or the workforce. Students engage in hands-on learning through Career and Technical Education (CTE), internships, and work-based learning experiences. The goal is to connect classroom knowledge with real-world career pathways that meet Michigan’s talent needs.

What does Career Preparation Look Like?

Career preparation in high school involves a combination of classroom learning, hands-on experiences, and guidance that helps students explore and plan for life after graduation. Here's what it typically looks like:

Career & Technical Education (CTE): Students take specialized courses in areas like healthcare, business, IT, construction, culinary arts, or automotive technology.
Work-Based Learning: Opportunities like job shadowing, internships, apprenticeships, or co-op programs connect students with real employers and workplaces.
Career Activities: Career fairs, guest speakers, and industry tours expose students to different career options.
Postsecondary Planning: Students get support with college applications, resumes, mock interviews, and financial aid.
Certifications & Dual Enrollment: Some students earn industry-recognized credentials or college credits while still in high school.

The goal is to ensure every student graduates with a plan, a purpose, and practical experience.

College & Career Readiness Opportunities

CAP (Pre-Internship)

The Career Accelerator Program enhanc es the educational experience of high school juniors and seniors in the Troy School District by exposing them to the world of work through a 20-hour "pre-internship" experience.

Students enjoy the opportunity to learn from professionals and to see what types of opportunities await them in the "world of work". Just as importantly this program connects the student's academic learning with tangible professional experiences.

Participating businesses enjoy the opportunity to work with students and share their own professional experiences. Businesses comment on how easy it was to participate.

Learn More About CAP

Career & Technical Education (CTE)

Career and Technical Education (CTE) is an innovative approach to learning that combines academic instruction with hands-on, real-world experiences to prepare students for success in college, careers, and life. CTE programs focus on providing students with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in specific industries or fields, while also fostering essential 21st-century skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, communication, and adaptability.

Program Offerings

TSD is proud to offer the following program:

Marketing
Business Administration Management and Operations (BAMO)
Finance
Culinary Arts
Education
Automotive
Mechanical Drafting
Mechatronics
Radio and Broadcasting
Drafting and Design
Computer Programming
Computer Security (Cybersecurity)

For more information, please reach out to your students counselor.

Learn more about CTE

Work-Based Learning

Work-Based Learning is sustained and progressively intensive interactions with employers or community professionals in real workplace settings, to the extent practicable, or simulated environments at an educational institution that foster in-depth, first-hand engagement with the tasks required of a given career field, that are aligned to curriculum, instruction, and Career and Technical Education (CTE) Program standards.

Learn More About Work-Based Learning

Oakland Schools Technical Campus

Oakland Schools Technical Campuses (OSTC) are designed for any student who wants to graduate high school with industry certifications, on-the-job experiences, business connections, and college credits. OSTCs are valuable extensions of our district high schools, and bring students customized, self-directed learning that guides them toward future career success. The goal of our OSTCs is to help students find the best program fit for their interests, experiences, and goals.

Learn More About OSTC

Dual Enrollment

Dual enrollment is a process by which high school students may enroll in college courses for high school and college credit. The Postsecondary Enrollment Option Act (PA 160 of 1996) establishes the opportunity for Michigan high school students to dual enroll in college courses at Michigan postsecondary institutions when certain criteria are met. High School students need to be continually challenged to maintain their academic interests and such challenges must include rigorous academic pursuits. To assist parents and students in understanding this educational opportunity, this guide has been created to outline eligibility for dual enrollment, what type of courses are covered under dual enrollment, and responsibility for costs and fees applicable to dual enrollment classes.

Learn More About Dual Enrollment

Employability (Durable) Skills)

Employability skills are the core abilities, habits, and personal qualities that help people get, keep, and succeed in a job—regardless of the specific career field.

They go beyond technical knowledge and focus on how you work, interact with others, and adapt in a professional environment. They’re essential because you can have the best technical training in the world, but without employability skills, it’s hard to thrive in the workplace.

Resource Kit

Sample Lessons

Job Readiness Skills