If you will be a Junior or Senior during the 2022-2023 school year and are interested in exploring career and technical education opportunities at the Gary Career Center, scroll down to learn about our programs, dual college credit and work-based learning opportunities.
Aviation Flight • Barbering • Cosmetology • Construction Trades •
Culinary Arts & Hospitality • Early Childhood Education • Graphic Design
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