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A group of students in white lab coats examining a human spine model in a laboratory setting, surrounded by shelves of scientific equipment and supplies.

CTE Expansion

Research shows that students with postsecondary credentials are 17 percentage points more likely to earn a living wage than their peers without credentials.

To dramatically improve post-graduation outcomes for Houston students, HISD is making a transformative investment in career and technical education through two state-of-the-art career centers that will expand specialized programming and ensure every graduate has the skills and certifications needed to succeed in today's economy.

HISD's Barbara Jordan Career Center is undergoing major renovations to increase capacity from approximately 900 students to 4,000 students by 2027-28, while the new Southside Launchpad at the former Grimes facility will open in 2028-29, serving an additional 3,940 students. This two-center model ensures students across Houston have equitable access to industry-grade facilities regardless of where they live, with most schools within 10-15 minutes of their designated center.

Both career centers will offer industry-aligned pathways in high-wage, high-demand fields including healthcare with hospital-grade simulation labs, advanced manufacturing and robotics, skilled trades like welding and HVAC, information technology and cybersecurity, engineering, and business management. Every program leads to industry-recognized certifications before graduation, with many offering dual credit through partnerships with Houston City College. HISD is committed to ensuring all students have access to living-wage jobs immediately after high school or can build helpful industry expertise to thrive in higher education pursuits.