Central High School – Kansas City, MO (CTE construction pathways)

Overview of the Construction Technology Pathway in Kansas City Public Schools (KCPS)

The Construction Technology Pathway is a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program offered through Kansas City Public Schools (KCPS) in Missouri. It is designed to equip high school students with practical skills in the construction industry, preparing them for entry-level employment, apprenticeships, or postsecondary education. While the program is not housed directly at Central High School, it is a district-wide offering primarily delivered at the Manual Career and Technical Center (MCTC) in Kansas City, MO. Students from Central High School (and other KCPS high schools) can participate as part of the district’s shared-time model, allowing them to split their day between their home school and MCTC. This aligns with Missouri’s broader CTE framework, which emphasizes hands-on training in high-demand fields like architecture and construction to address workforce needs.

Missouri’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) oversees CTE programs statewide, including construction pathways under the Architecture and Construction career cluster. These programs focus on building competencies in trades like carpentry, electrical, masonry, and HVAC, often incorporating certifications from the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). In KCPS, the Construction Technology Pathway supports DESE’s goals by integrating real-world projects and industry partnerships, contributing to the state’s initiative to prepare students for high-wage, high-skill jobs. In the 2019-20 school year, 64% of Missouri high school students enrolled in at least one CTE program, with thousands earning industry-recognized credentials.

Background and History

The Construction Technology Pathway in KCPS has roots in traditional vocational training but evolved significantly with the launch of the Enhanced Construction Technology Program in August 2017. This initiative was a collaborative effort to address a chronic shortage of skilled tradespeople in the Kansas City region and nationwide. Prior to 2017, MCTC offered a more basic residential construction training program. The enhancement shifted the focus to intensive commercial construction training, incorporating broader skilled trades and STEM-related knowledge (e.g., technology in building processes) to meet modern industry demands.

The program was developed in response to regional workforce gaps, where construction jobs require not only manual skills but also understanding of advanced technologies like digital blueprints and sustainable materials. It serves as a “first-of-its-kind” model in the area, combining classroom instruction with on-site field experience to create a direct pipeline to unionized, high-paying jobs. This aligns with Missouri’s statewide Career Pathways initiative, which strengthens connections between education and the workforce. DESE’s Career Pathways for the Construction Trades competency packet (available statewide) provides a framework for such programs, emphasizing core competencies, instructional tools, and student plans of study.

The 2017 launch was driven by industry leaders aiming to empower urban youth, particularly in underserved communities, with opportunities for economic mobility. It reflects broader trends in Missouri CTE, where programs like this have led to high placement rates—94% of CTE graduates statewide enter employment, further education, or the military, with 66% working in their trained field.

Program Description and Structure

The pathway targets students in grades 10-12 (primarily 11-12 for the full program) and emphasizes project-based learning. Students build model constructions and participate in on-site projects, using industry-standard tools, equipment, and materials. The curriculum prepares participants for pre-apprentice roles, entry-level jobs, or further training at community colleges or trade schools.

Key Skills Taught:
- Occupational safety and health practices (e.g., hazard recognition and prevention).
- Framing, roofing, and structural assembly.
- Drywall installation and finishing.
- Interior and exterior trim, door, and window installation.
- Blueprint reading and interpretation.
- Construction estimating (e.g., material costs and project planning).

Students must participate in SkillsUSA, a national CTE student organization that promotes leadership, competitions, and networking in skilled trades.

Courses Offered:
- Introduction to Construction Technology (available at select high schools like Northeast High School for younger students or as an entry point).
- Core Construction Technology courses at MCTC, which build progressively over 1-2 years, focusing on hands-on modules in residential and commercial building techniques.
- Advanced topics may include commercial-specific elements like site management and sustainable construction practices, integrated from the 2017 enhancements.

The program typically involves a shared-time schedule: Students attend their home school (e.g., Central High School) for core academics and travel to MCTC for CTE sessions. Transportation may be provided by the district.

Certifications and Outcomes

While specific certifications are not always listed in program descriptions, Missouri CTE construction pathways commonly align with:

OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification (required for eligibility in many entry-level positions).
NCCER Core Curriculum and Level 1 certifications in areas like Carpentry or General Construction (emphasized in DESE’s statewide guidelines).

Successful completers are prepared for:

Pre-apprenticeships or apprenticeships in unions or trade organizations.
Entry-level roles with potential salaries starting at $41,766 (Skilled Trained Apprentice), rising to $58,860 (Journeyman) or $84,080 (Job Site Superintendent), based on National Occupational Handbook data.
Postsecondary pathways, such as associate degrees in construction management or related fields at institutions like Metropolitan Community College (MCC).

The program boasts high engagement, with real-world field placements contributing to better employment outcomes. For example, the 2017 enhancements included commitments for graduates to work on major projects like the Kansas City International (KCI) Airport redevelopment.

Partnerships and Industry Involvement

The pathway benefits from strong industry collaborations, which provide mentorship, equipment, and job placements:

Key Partners from the 2017 Launch:
- The Builders’ Association (provides training resources and industry connections).
- Greater Kansas City Building Trades Association (facilitates union apprenticeships).
- Burns & McDonnell (committed to hiring the first 10 graduates for the KCI project if qualified, and offers scholarships for MCC programs).
- Other construction firms for on-site internships and field training.
Additional district partnerships include PREP-KC (for energy-related credentials, sometimes overlapping with construction) and the KC STEM Alliance (for ecosySTEM KC integration in related programs).
These collaborations ensure curriculum relevance, with input from employers to incorporate emerging technologies and address regional demands (e.g., commercial building booms in Kansas City).

Participation for Central High School Students

Central High School does not offer the Construction Technology Pathway on-site; instead, its CTE focus includes Business Administration & Entrepreneurship, Culinary Arts, Grow Your Own Educator Preparation, and Information Technology & Cyber Security. However, as a KCPS school, Central students in grades 11-12 are eligible to enroll in MCTC programs, including Construction Technology. To participate:

Students consult their school counselor to apply (applications are district-managed).
Eligibility requires living within KCPS boundaries and meeting basic prerequisites (e.g., interest in trades, good attendance).
The shared-time model allows flexibility, with students earning credits toward graduation while gaining CTE experience.

This access supports Central students in exploring construction careers without leaving the district, aligning with Missouri’s emphasis on equitable CTE opportunities.

For more information, visit the KCPS website (kcpublicschools.org) or contact Central High School’s counseling office. If you’re a student or parent in Wichita, KS (noting your location), similar programs may exist in local districts—consider checking Kansas DESE for cross-state comparisons.

Involvement in SkillsUSA

SkillsUSA is the premier student organization for career and technical education (CTE) in the United States, and participation in its competitions is a core component of membership. Competitions emphasize hands-on skills, leadership, and professional development, with events structured at local/regional, state, and national levels. These competitions are created and judged by industry professionals to align with real-world entry-level job requirements.

Students in programs like the Construction Technology Pathway (e.g., carpentry, electrical, masonry, or related trades) can compete in relevant skilled contests such as Carpentry, Electrical Construction Wiring, Masonry, Construction Blueprint Reading, or team events like Welding Fabrication. Leadership contests (open to all members) include events like Extemporaneous Speaking, Prepared Speech, or Parliamentary Procedure.

Participation Requirements

To compete at any level, students must be active SkillsUSA members:

Enrolled in a CTE program (high school, college/postsecondary, or middle school where applicable).
Paid national and state dues (national deadline is typically March 1 each year; state deadlines vary but are often earlier).
Membership is required for eligibility in national events, serving as voting delegates, or running for office.

Competitors must qualify progressively:

Local/Regional Level → Winners advance to state.
State Level → Gold medalists (typically first place) advance to nationals.
States may have additional rules (e.g., minimum chapter membership, advisor requirements, or limits on contests per student).

General rules from SkillsUSA Championships include:

Competitors are evaluated on entry-level skills against industry standards (not against each other for automatic medals if performance doesn’t meet thresholds).
Safety compliance is mandatory (e.g., proper attire, no prohibited devices like cellphones in competition areas).
No ties for top placements; judges’ decisions are final.
Technical Standards (official rules) are updated biannually (current 2024-2026 edition) and accessible via the SkillsUSA registration site for professional members.

State-Level Participation (Focus on Missouri)

State competitions, called State Leadership and Skills Conferences (SLSC), are managed by each state’s SkillsUSA association (not national headquarters). In Missouri:

SkillsUSA Missouri (skillsusamo.org) oversees events for high schools and colleges.
The state has nine districts with nearly 10,000 members.
Competitions showcase skills in areas like construction, manufacturing, and more.
District-level events (e.g., fall leadership conferences or regional contests) feed into the state conference.
The Missouri SLSC typically occurs in spring (exact dates vary annually; check skillsusamo.org for current calendar).
Students qualify via district or local contests.
Top performers (gold medalists in national-aligned contests) advance to nationals.
Missouri emphasizes preparation for workforce readiness, with contests modeled after national standards but adapted locally.
For construction pathway students (e.g., from KCPS programs like at Manual Career and Technical Center), participation builds on hands-on training and SkillsUSA chapter involvement, which is required in many CTE pathways.

Contact SkillsUSA Missouri State Director (e.g., via dese.mo.gov or skillsusamo.org) for specific dates, registration, and contest offerings.

National-Level Participation

The pinnacle is the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference (NLSC), held annually in Atlanta, GA (scheduled for June 1-5, 2026).

Features the SkillsUSA Championships: Over 6,500-6,700 state champions compete in 114 skilled and leadership events.
Includes hands-on trade contests (e.g., carpentry framing, blueprint interpretation, safety practices), leadership events, and more.
Attracts 19,000+ attendees, including industry judges, trade show (TECHSPO), workshops, community service, and an awards ceremony.
Gold, silver, and bronze medals awarded (top three per contest, if performance meets standards).
Additional highlights: Leadership training, networking, and potential scholarships/tools as prizes.
Eligibility: Must be state gold medalist in a national-advancing contest, paid member by deadlines, and meet contest-specific rules (e.g., age/division: high school or postsecondary).
Construction-related contests fall under the Architecture & Construction career cluster.

Top national performers may qualify for the WorldSkills Competition (biennial international event).

Benefits of Participation

Builds resume-worthy credentials and industry-recognized skills.
Networking with employers and peers.
Scholarships, tools, and job opportunities.
Leadership development and confidence-building.

For the most current details (e.g., 2025-2026 contest lists, updates, or Missouri-specific info), visit:

National: skillsusa.org/competitions
Missouri: skillsusamo.org

If you’re involved with Central High School or KCPS in Kansas City, MO, connect with your CTE advisor or chapter sponsor to join a local SkillsUSA chapter and start competing!