Chattanooga, Tenn. (May 26, 2021) - Over the last five years, Hamilton County Schools (HCS) has significantly increased the number of students earning industry certifications. The number of high school students earning an industry certification nearly tripled from last school year, with over 900 industry certifications earned this year.
Industry certifications allow graduates to leave high school with a certification for a skill set in a career field that aligns with their interests. An earned certification also makes graduates extremely competitive when looking for a job or entering a post-secondary training program.
“Industry certifications are important because they help students prepare for life after school and demonstrate that our graduates are equipped with the skills as well as knowledge necessary to make immediate contributions in a specific industry,” said Blake Freeman, K-12 Academic Officer for Hamilton County Schools. “These certifications are also designed to respond to the workforce needs of the Chattanooga community.”
An important goal in the five-year strategic plan of HCS is for 75% of graduates to complete at least one advanced course or industry certification exam as studies show students who take early post-secondary courses and earn industry certifications are more likely to enroll in a post-secondary program and more likely to complete a program of study.
Each of the industry certifications is selected and supported by the schools' advisory boards to ensure that the district provides the right opportunities to support the industry when students graduate.
Certifications by Year:
2017-2018: 61
2018-2019: 224
2019-2020: 316
2020-2021: 906+
HCS anticipates more certifications through the summer as several agencies finish up certification paperwork.
Certification Areas:
Business
Coding
Engineering
Health Science
Construction and Manufacturing
A/V Production
Automotive
Construction