fbpx

If you have any questions, please email the CTE Coordinator Ms. Ware at dware@garyschools.org.

1800 E 35th Ave, Gary, IN 46409

(219) 962-7571

Dr. Vanessa Nichols – Director of Career Center

About Gary Area Career Center

Gary Area Career Center is the premier Career and Technical Education facility in Northwest Indiana. We are committed to being a multifaceted and diverse training program. Our highly-qualified, industry-certified teaching staff provides each student with knowledge acquired from their years of work experiences in the industry.In addition, our teaching staff continues to stay current in the industry through continued education and participation in industry related conferences and trainings.Allow us the opportunity to provide an engaging and relevant high school experience, prepare you for any post-secondary education aspirations, but most importantly, give you the education and skills for obtaining a fulfilling and high paying career!

AVIATION OPERATIONS

Aviation Operations

The Aviation Operations program provides students with a broad-based introduction to the field of aviation. This course is designed to enhance students’ knowledge of the pertinent areas of aircraft basic science that comprise the scientific fundamentals applied in all areas of the aviation industry.

 

Students Learn

Aviation Technology

Federal Aviation Regulations

Exploration of the Current Aviation Environment 

Career and Employment Opportunities in the Field

Career Opportunities

Aircraft Mechanic, Pilot, Air Traffic Controller, Aviation Administration

 

Median Wages

(2018) Transportation Management $45.54* hourly. Air traffic is expected to increase gradually over the coming decade, and will require additional support to positions in aviation. The median annual wage for Transportation Managers was $94,730 in May 2018. Source https://www.onetonline.org/link/details/11-3071.01

BARBERING

Barbering

The Barbering program is designed to prepare students for the Indiana State Board Barber Licensure Examination. The classroom activities prepare students with the academic knowledge needed to pass the licensure test. The laboratory activities take place in a barber shop environment with the opportunity to perform the skills on community members.

Students Learn

The most current, technically precise education available in the barbering industry. 

To trim, cut and shave hair, beards and mustaches. 

The importance of theory and its application. 

To cater to male and female clientele of all ages. 

To develop a sense of style and passion for the traditional, as well as, the latest trends in hair design and grooming.

 

Industry Certification

State Barber License

 

Career Opportunities

Self-Employed Barbers, Personal Care Services, Educational Instructors

 

Median Wages

(2018) $13.44 hourly* 

Employment of barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists is projected to grow 13 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. Population growth will lead to greater demand for hair care services. Source: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/39-5011.00

CONSTRUCTION TRADES

Construction Trades

The Construction Trades program develops the skills and knowledge to become work-ready in a variety of construction trades. Students experience hands on training with the formation, installation, maintenance, and repair of buildings, homes, and other structures.

Students Learn

Carpentry 

Floor, Wall and Roof Framing

Drywall

Siding

Door and Window Installation

Overview of the Concrete and Masonry Trades

Blueprint Reading

Personal, Shop and Work-Site Safety Practices

  

Industry Certification

NCCER

OSHA 10

Career Opportunities

Carpenter, Electrician, Plumber, Drywall Installer, Union/Non-Union Apprentice

Median Wages

Construction and Related Workers – (2018) $18.68 hourly.*

Employment of construction laborers and helpers is projected to grow 12 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. Laborers and helpers work in all fields of construction, and demand for these workers should mirror the level of overall construction activity. Source: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/47-4099.00

COSMETOLOGY

Cosmetology

The Cosmetology program is a two-year program for juniors and seniors. It is designed to qualify students for licensing through the Indiana State Board of Cosmetology. The instructional program includes classroom training and clinical experience in a salon setting. Along with the skills training, the program emphasizes hygiene, sanitation, and sterilization. 

Students Learn 

Make-Up Techniques

Cutting, Hair Designing, and Braiding

Perming and Straightening

Coloring

Manicuring/Pedicuring

Industry Certification

State Cosmetology License

Career Opportunities

Hairdresser, Hairstylist, Cosmetologist, Skincare Specialist, Barber, Manicurist/Pedicurist, Shampooer, Salon Manager

Median Wages

(2018) $11.89 hourly* Employment of barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists is projected to grow 13 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. Careers of cosmetologists extend to specializing in makeup and for television or film. Cosmetologists may go on to develop their own lines of skincare, haircare and makeup lines; some of the most well-known creators who started in cosmetology are John Frieda, Vidal Sassoon, Paul Mitchell and Estee Lauder. Source: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/39-5012.00

CRIMINAL JUSTICE / LAW ENFORCEMENT

Criminal Justice / Law Enforcement

The Criminal Justice program introduces specialized classroom and practical experiences related to public safety occupations such as law enforcement, loss prevention services, and homeland security. These courses provide an introduction to the purposes, functions, and history of the three primary parts of the criminal justice system as well as an introduction to the investigative process.

Students Learn 

Skills for entry level police and legal work

Traffic Control

Criminology 

Forensic Science

Industry Certification

Emergency Telecommunicator Certification Certified Indiana County Jail Officer

Career Opportunities

State Highway Patrol Officer, County Sheriff’s Deputy, City Police Officer, State Liquor Control Officer, Corrections Officer, State Bureau of Criminal Investigation Officer, Military Police, Medical Examiner Investigation

Median Wages

Officer — (2018) $29.51 hourly* Being a police officer can be the most fascinating and satisfying career you could ever choose.  Education requirements range from a high school diploma to a college degree. Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency’s training academy before completing a period of on-the-job training. Source: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/33-3051.01

CULINARY ARTS & HOSPITALITY

Culinary Arts & Hospitality

The Culinary Arts and Hospitality program at GACC will teach students techniques and hot industry trends in food. Students learn basic cooking skills, kitchen management, professionalism and equipment management. Working in an industrial kitchen, students will learn techniques passed down from world renowned chefs and compete amongst other culinary students. 

Students Learn

Classic and Trending Cooking Skills 

Equipment Management 

Kitchen Staff Management   

Professionalism in the Kitchen

Sanitation and Hygiene Techniques

Industry Certification

ServeSafe Sanitation Certification

ProStart National Certification

Career Opportunities

Hotel/Motel Manager, Travel & Tourism, Restaurant Manager, Chef, Cook, Baker, Restauranteur

Median Wages

Chefs – $23.30 hourly* Employment of chefs and head cooks is projected to grow 10 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. Most job opportunities for chefs and head cooks are expected to be in food services, including restaurants. Income growth will result in greater demand for high-quality dishes at a variety of dining venues. As a result, more restaurants and other dining places are expected to open to satisfy consumer desire for dining out. Source: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/35-1011.00

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Early Childhood Education

The Early Childhood Education program prepares students to work with and educate children from birth through eight years of age. Students gain skills and knowledge in development, discipline, health, safety, communication, planning, preparing, and presenting activities. Early Childhood Education is encouraged for the health development and nurturing of social skills because the brain is developing faster in this stage than at any other point in their lives.

Students Learn

To teach small and large groups 

To create developmentally appropriate lesson plans 

How to maintain a healthy learning environment for children 

How to demonstrate employment skills needed to work with youth 

Industry Certification

Child Development Associate

Career Opportunities

Childcare Assistant, Head Start teacher or assistant, School-Age Assistant, Infant/Toddler Assistant 

Median Wages

Pre-school teacher — (2018) $14.32 hourly.* Employment of preschool teachers is projected to grow 10 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. Growth is expected due to a continued focus on the importance of early childhood education. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), enrollment in prekindergarten-level education has risen from 96,000 to over 1 million in the last 30 years. Source: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/35-1011.00

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Graphic Design

The Graphic Design program develops the skills used in all aspects of the graphics industry, from design to completion of printed and digital media solutions. Students use professional graphic software programs to design media such as advertisments, logos, posters, animations, websites, apps and more.

Students Learn

Design principles and elements 

Industry software, including Adobe Creative Apps 

How to combine images and type to create conceptual designs   

How to critique others and work with clients   

Industry Certification

Adobe Certification 

Career Opportunities

Graphic Designer, Advertising Designer, Art Director, Web Designer, Publisher, Interactive Media Designer/Developer, Print Manager, Production Supervisor, Sales/Account Representative

Median Wages

(2018) $24.21 hourly/$50,370 annually. Many graphic designers are employed in specialized design services, publishing, or advertising, public relations, and related services industries. In 2016, about 1 in 5 graphic designers were self-employed. Companies are continuing to increase their digital presence, requiring graphic designers to help create visually appealing and effective layouts of websites, digital advertising.  Source: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/35-1011.00

HEALTH SCIENCE EDUCATION

Health Science Education

The Health Science Education program is designed for students considering a career in the health and medical field. Students develop a wide range of skills including basic medical skills in patient care, records management and medical terminology.   

Students Learn

Anatomy and Physiology

Medical Terminology

Certified Nurse Aide Training
Basic Health Care Skills

Industry Certification

Certified Nursing Assistant 

Emergency Medical Technician and Paramedic

Career Opportunities

Certified Nursing Assistant, Dental Hygienist, Doctor, Emergency Medical Tech, Medical Assistant, Personal Trainer, Pharmacy Technician, Physical Therapy Asst. or Registered Nurse   

Median Wages

Nursing assistant ­— (2019) $14.26 per hour.* Overall employment of nursing assistants and orderlies is projected to grow 11 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. As the baby-boom population ages, nursing assistants and orderlies will be needed to assist and care for elderly patients. Source: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/31-1131.00

Radio and TV Production

The Radio and TV Production program is designed for students considering a career in broadcasting. Students develop a wide range of skills digital production techniques for audio, video, studio and field production. 

Students Learn

Programming

Writing, recording interviewing, editing, and announcing skills

Short Video Segments

Analyze Professional Programs

Career Opportunities

A/V Technician, Camera Operator, Broadcast Technician, Radio Personality, Broadcast Operations Engineer, Production Engineer   

Median Wages

Broadcast Technician— (2019) $19.51 per hour.* Overall employment of broadcast, sound, and video technicians is projected to grow 9 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Growth is expected to stem from businesses, schools, and entertainment industries seeking to improve their audio and video capabilities. They will need technicians to set up, operate, and maintain equipment. Source: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/27-4012.00 

WELDING TECHNOLOGY

Welding Technology

The Welding Technology program is designed to prepare students for the many careers available in welding. Welding is utilized in many industries including: automotive, construction, manufacturing, ship building, oil refineries, and transportation.

Students Learn

Industrial and Welding Safety

Oxyacetylene Cutting/Welding 

Shielded Metal Arc Welding 

Metal Inert Gas Welding (Mig) 

Tungsten Inert Gas (Tig) 

Welding Fabrication 

Welding Blueprint Reading 

Industry Certification

American Welding Society Certifications

Career Opportunities

Tack Welder, Production Welder, Welder/Fitter, Robotic Technician, Inspector, Welding Foreman, Welding Technician

Median Wages

Welders, Cutters and Welder Fitters — (2018) $19.89 per hour.* Employment growth reflects the need for welders in manufacturing because of the importance and versatility of welding as a manufacturing process. The basic skills of welding are similar across industries, so welders can easily shift from one industry to another, depending on where they are needed most.  Source: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/51-4121.06