Vocational Studies on the Rise at Cuyahoga Valley Career Center

The Brecksville-Broadview Heights School District is witnessing a significant shift in post-graduation plans, as more students are pursuing vocational careers. Driven by rising college costs and evolving workforce demands, enrollment at the Cuyahoga Valley Career Center (CVCC) has surged in recent years, leaving some students on waiting lists for its sought-after programs.

Enrollment Trends and Challenges

At an October 16 school board meeting, Rachel Malec, district representative to CVCC, reported that 19% of the junior class and 21% of the senior class at Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School are enrolled in CVCC programs. These numbers have grown so rapidly that demand now exceeds the center’s capacity.

“We have students who would like to attend the career center who, unfortunately, are on a waitlist,” said BBH Superintendent Jeffrey Harrison.

Programs like construction trades and heavy machinery have seen remarkable growth, with the construction trades program alone maintaining a waitlist of 70 students. Each class is capped at 24 students, highlighting the pressing need for additional resources.

Expanding Opportunities at CVCC

CVCC serves eight districts—Brecksville-Broadview Heights, Garfield Heights, Cuyahoga Heights, Independence, Nordonia, North Royalton, Revere, and Twinsburg. To address the growing demand, CVCC has begun constructing a $12.2 million, two-story laboratory building. The 21,500-square-foot addition will provide advanced facilities for high school and adult learners in construction trades. Funded by a $9 million state grant and $3.2 million from CVCC, the project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

Programs offered at CVCC include electrical systems, building property maintenance, heating and air conditioning, and an upcoming parks and environmental services program, set to launch in the 2026-2027 school year.

The Changing Workforce

This shift aligns with projections from the Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services, which anticipates an 11% increase in the demand for construction managers by 2028. Similarly, the need for construction trade workers, laborers, and electricians is expected to grow by 5.3%, 8%, and 8%, respectively.

“The college-for-all mentality isn’t necessarily the same as it used to be, nor should it be because the trends are changing, and the job force is changing,” said Superintendent Harrison.

Integrating Career Tech at BBHHS

Recognizing the need to prepare students for diverse career paths, BBHHS is incorporating career technical education into its curriculum.

“We’ve been trying to incorporate some of the career tech trends as part of some of our coursework at the high school to prepare our students [prior to graduation],” Harrison said. “Depending on their career path, that may mean attending a college or university, or it may mean a trade school or an apprenticeship.”

The district is also exploring in-house career tech programs for students unable to attend CVCC. Discussions are underway to implement these courses sooner rather than later, offering students more opportunities to explore vocational careers without leaving BBHHS.

Looking Ahead

With new facilities under construction and a growing emphasis on vocational education, CVCC and BBHHS are poised to equip students with the skills they need to succeed in an evolving workforce. The district’s strategic focus on career tech reflects a broader understanding of the value of alternative education paths, ensuring students are well-prepared for their future endeavors.