About CTE

Welcome to our Career and Technology Education (CTE) page!

Our CTE programs offer hands-on learning experiences in various fields. Our technical education advisory committee has identified 4 programs of study to meet the skilled needs of our community.  Those programs are

  • Agriculture Engineering

  • Automotive

  • Pre-Nursing (CNA)

  • Welding

Students are encouraged to pursue certification in each of the programs within one year of high school graduation.  Additionally, there are extra curricular activities associated with the programs of study, such as FFA and Health Occupations and Service Association. 

These programs prepare students for future careers by equipping them with both technical skills and essential employability skills, such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability, we empower our students to succeed in the ever-evolving global economy.

We believe that CTE plays a vital role in preparing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and skilled professionals. By investing in CTE, we invest in the future success of our students and our community as a whole.

Programs of Study

The district proudly presents four distinctive Career Technical Education (CTE) programs of study, each designed to equip students with practical skills and industry certifications. Completing three years in the same program qualifies students as program completers, making them eligible for specific industry certifications.

Guided by a community advisory committee, we ensure our programs align with the skilled labor needs of our county. Funding for supplies and equipment is made possible through federal (Perkins) and state (NexGen) grants, enabling us to provide top-notch resources for each program.

Below, you'll find detailed information on the CTE programs available to Quemado High School students.

Nursing - CNA

Students who successfully complete our nursing program have the opportunity to test for the New Mexico Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) licensure. Becoming a CNA can serve as a foundation for various healthcare occupations or a lifelong career choice. CNAs play essential roles in home health and hospice care, which are crucial services in Catron County.

The program begins with an overview of body systems and associated disorders, designed for 10th-grade students. In their junior year, students receive hands-on training in caring for others as CNAs. Seniors have the option to enroll in dual-credit college courses or participate in work-based training programs outside the school.

Throughout the three-year program, students have the opportunity to join the state Health Occupation Service Association. Our program is coordinated by a Registered Nurse with 34 years of experience teaching CNA students.

Welding

Students who successfully complete our welding program have the opportunity to obtain welding certifications, opening doors to entry-level positions right after high school graduation. The two-year program offers extensive hands-on training in welding, including equipment repair and project completion.

Seniors enrolled in the welding program can opt for work-based training programs, such as apprenticeships, or pursue college dual-credit classes. Our students have access to a range of equipment, including small welders, metalwork tools, and safety equipment.

Led by an instructor with extensive experience in welding and automotive fields, our program provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the welding industry.

Automotive

Students who successfully complete our automotive program have the option to pursue base automotive certification. Our program provides students with access to essential equipment such as automotive lifts, tire changers, and tools necessary for hands-on learning.

Led by an experienced instructor with a wealth of knowledge in the automotive field, our program offers students a comprehensive understanding of automotive repair and maintenance.

Agriculture Engineering

In our Agriculture Engineering program, participation in FFA (Future Farmers of America) is a central focus. Students engage in hands-on activities that emphasize livestock care and judging, leadership skills, ranching practices, and other relevant areas of agriculture.

Led by an instructor who is a respected figure in the Quemado community and has extensive experience in livestock management, our program provides students with valuable insights and practical knowledge in agricultural engineering.