More than 80 Dripping Springs High School students obtained industry and work-ready certifications through Dripping Springs High School’s Career and Technical Education during the 2021–2022 school year.
Students earned a total of 87 certifications across a variety of career pathways, including health science, biotechnology, engineering and floral design. That number is expected to increase this summer, as students continue taking certification exams over the next several weeks. Certification courses provide valuable technical, communica tion, collaboration and leadership skills to help students build their career portfolios and earn higher wages.
These certifications introduce students to knowledge and skills that are foundational to future jobs and set them apart from their peers.
The Certified Electrocardiogram Technician program is in its second year at DSHS. It saw the highest number of students certified this year with 31 students passing the exam. Students in this program paired valuable coursework with hands-on, practical skills. Each of the students who earned the CET will be able to work in a variety of medical and clinical settings.
With the second-highest number of students certified, the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program celebrated 24 students passing the nationally recognized industry exam. A clinical medical assistant can be responsible for a wide range of patient care applications, from assisting physicians with procedures to taking vital signs to recordkeeping. They can work in a variety of settings such as independent clinics, hospitals, nursing homes or home health.
Biotechnology saw two senior students earn Austin Community College’s Biotechnician Level 1 Certification. This joint program with ACC provides students with the opportunity to gain valuable lab skills, learn to record and analyze data, participate in research projects, and compete for entry-level jobs in Austin’s fast-growing biotech sector.
In the engineering sector, four students earned certifications as Certified Solidworks Associates in Computer-Aided Drafting & Design. Three students were certified as Certified Solidworks Professionals in Computer-Aided Drafting & Design. Earning a certification in Solidworks applications demonstrates competency in 2D or 3D computer-aided design, which is used in many engineering trades today for drafting projects.
The floral design program was introduced at DSHS because of the high demand for skilled labor in the Dripping Springs area, known as the “wedding capital of Texas.” Fifteen certifications were earned by DSHS students this year through the Texas State Florist Association. This program has led to many DSHS students finding internships and paid positions in the local floral industry.
A complete list of students earning CTE certifications can be found at dsisdtx.us/Page/3068.
