Career Technical Education
Relevant Education for a Lifetime
Career Technical Education courses integrate academics in a rigorous and relevant curriculum. It provides students with an opportunity to acquire real-life skills to prepare them for successful, continuing education or entry-level career positions.
CTE Pathway Benefits:
- Certifications in software programs
- College credit opportunities
- Participation in SkillsUSA
Learn More: CTE Pathways at Warren
Each CTE Pathway is industry-focused and usually consists of 2-3 courses. The last course in the pathway is the capstone. When students complete a course they may receive college credit or receive an industry certificate. Click on each industry below to see details about the courses and outcomes.
Audio & Music Production
Audiovisual Tech Support
Biotechnology
Construction
Education
Engineering
Film & Video
Fire Science
Food Science & Culinary Arts
Game Programming
Machining & Forming
Makeup Artistry
Welding
Why Participate in CTE?
- Explore career interests and goals
- Learn employability and job skills
- Create a personal portfolio
- Obtain work experience and on-the-job-training
- Prepare for advanced career training
- Receive high school credits
- Compete in industry competitions
Career Technical Education at Downey Unified School District
What this means for parents…
Your student will have the opportunity to learn the skills necessary to successfully transition from school to career and beyond.
According to the Department of Labor, statistics show that skilled trade people can earn more money than people with master’s degrees. We believe that by integrating career technical education into the academic curriculum, students will see the connection and value between an education and career technical training.
Ultimately, students will be able to pursue rewarding and well-paying jobs and/or continue their education in college or a technical school.
What this means for middle school students…
In addition to your college prep classes at Warren, you have the opportunity to experience hands-on training in a specific career area to see if you really want to invest your time to become an architect, chef, or hotel manager after you graduate.
Contact your counselor to enroll.
Questions: raqperez@dusd.net
CTE News & Announcements
ESports at Warren: Competing, Learning, and College-Bound
Warren High’s ESports program is doing more than building winning teams. It’s giving students a place to learn, compete, and tap into real opportunities in gaming, tech, and college ESports. From daily practices to playoff runs and scholarships, our players are taking this fast-growing field to the next level. With the DUSD District Championship coming up on Tuesday, December 2 at the Downey Theatre, there’s no better time to see what our teams can do.
Future Educators in Action: A Look Inside our CTE Education Careers Pathway
Our new Education Careers pathway gives students a behind-the-scenes look at every role that keeps schools running—from teachers and counselors to tech teams and support staff. Through guest speakers, real-world experiences, and personal growth opportunities like CliftonStrengths coaching, students are discovering their talents and preparing to make an impact in education.
Warren High’s Warbots Robotics Team Inspires the Next Generation of Engineers
What started as a new robotics team in 2023 has quickly become a powerhouse of innovation and mentorship. The Warren Warbots are designing, building, and competing on an international stage—while inspiring students across Downey Unified to dream big in STEM.