Career and Technical Education (CTE) spaces are more than just classrooms: they are gateways to future careers, designed to align with community needs and resources. It’s critical to work with local stakeholders when designing learning environments that support programs tailored to the community. In Colorado’s Sheridan School District, administrators sought to provide an alternate education pathway to students who could benefit from a career-oriented approach to secondary education. Our team at Wold was engaged to support the addition of a space for trade unions to assist students in alternate career paths.
Why should districts engage students in alternative academic pathways?
CTE programs target students who aren’t interested in the college route or need exposure to different careers, and they engage specialized instructors to combine curriculum with work experience and training. Given the deficit in existing carpentry, plumbing, electrical and HVAC workers, District Superintendent Pat Sandos saw the opportunity for a successful CTE program at Sheridan High School. With involvement from industry partners and local trade unions, a supportive district and a thriving local construction industry, the only need was a space to implement the program and empower the emerging workforce.
Transforming a unique space strengthened the program
To help make this program a reality, the district brought in Wold Architects and Engineers, a national firm with an office in Denver, Colo., featuring 30+ experts with extensive educational design expertise. For a project focused on unlocking the potential of Sheridan’s student population, our Wold team turned our attention to one local building that provided an opportunity to support the CTE program. The district owned a long-abandoned recreation center with an empty swimming pool, initially deemed too expensive to renovate. Together, we envisioned a revitalized space to support the program and set out to transform it into a functional hub for modern trade education.
To address the unique challenges of maximizing the recreation center space, we began by leveling the pool to create a flat surface that would open up space for a two-story structure and an elevator. Through meticulous space planning, we designed a dynamic learning environment spanning over 10,000 square feet and fully equipped to support classes in locally vital trades.
Customizing design for the district’s present and future was crucial
Our team worked closely with the district to ensure the space met all educational requirements and could adapt to future needs. We integrated modern mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems and made exterior improvements, including new windows, a new roof and two pedestrian walkways, to enhance the building’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.
“Our relationship with Wold dates back years and spans several successful projects, so we knew we could count on their expertise in this endeavor,” said Superintendent Pat Sandos. “We were excited to work with familiar faces with whom we could be frank and honest in our conversations, and we greatly appreciated the level of investment the Wold team demonstrated in the success of our kids.”
Our team worked with the district to overcome challenges in planning, cost and design. With no precedent for any similar projects and a back-and-forth approval and funding process, Wold stood with Sheridan School District at each turn and advocated for the importance of the new space. Thinking critically about the design to determine which elements were necessary for the space and which were luxuries, plans were adapted accordingly to best fit the district’s needs.
“For a project that required expert customization in the design process, Wold’s expertise was invaluable,” said Sandos. “A unique space and program called for unique design considerations, and the Wold team helped us identify where to focus our efforts to achieve the best possible outcome.”
Connecting students to a community through the power of career pathway education
CTE unlocks opportunities for students while meeting them at their current academic and life stages. In Colorado, these programs are gaining traction as administrators across the state recognize the benefits of career-focused educational opportunities, including reaching disadvantaged youth and providing pathways from difficult life circumstances to successful careers. Industries like construction and engineering are actively seeking new talent, and connecting students with local employers delivers a direct and immediate impact by creating jobs for young adults.
Through CTE programs, students connect with their community, learn from local trade experts and see the real-world impact of their work. What starts as a trade class in a converted swimming pool can lead to apprenticeships and, ultimately, a fulfilling career in the communities that raised them.
“Career and Technical Education has countless benefits, both in and outside the classroom,” said Job Gutierrez, Partner at Wold. “It helps students learn about the industries that help their local economy thrive, creating a sense of pride in the community. Graduates leave their secondary education with a direction for their career and an opportunity to make a strong income immediately. Best of all, CTE programming provides hope and community for young people who may feel disconnected from traditional education pathways.”
At Sheridan High School, students head straight from graduation to the apprenticeships with which they were connected during their training. To celebrate their achievements and honor their involvement with local companies, the school hosted a “signing day,” a heartwarming ceremony in which the students commit to their apprenticeships, much like student athletes sign on with collegiate programs. Our team was honored to play a role in equipping these students with a space for crucial CTE programming, and we look forward to helping many more start meaningful careers in the trades.