From coding to cockpits, new program gives highschoolers a head start on tech careers
What if high schoolers could earn college credit not only in math and Spanish but in aviation maintenance, business and cyber systems?
Thanks to K-State Salina’s new pre-college pathway program, high school juniors and seniors interested in high-demand tech careers can gain hands-on experience, learn from the pros and tackle real-world challenges — all while their classmates are still in study hall.
Offering primarily online courses in aviation maintenance, applied business, applied cyber systems design and uncrewed aircraft systems, the program empowers students to jump-start their college education from home through dual credit material — college level coursework that counts towards both high-school and college graduation requirements.
“These courses are unique education options that high school students might not otherwise be able to obtain,” said Monte Couchman, director of K-State Salina pre-college pathways. “Depending on the program they choose, students won’t have to travel to get onto a technical college’s campus. If they have access to Wi-Fi and a laptop, this is a way for them to earn college credit and jump start their career.”
The program doesn’t only aim to break down enrollment barriers — cost barriers are also a top priority.
Pre-college participants who apply for the program’s scholarship can shrink costs to $85 per credit hour, a 73% discount. Those in the aviation maintenance pathway can also fast-track their associate degree, needing only one year of full-time college coursework at K-State after completing the pre-college program.
The courses, taught by on-campus faculty experts, are an innovative way to attract the next generation of technology and aviation changemakers to K-State Salina, all while boosting flexibility and affordability.
“We’ve got campus data that supports that all four of our pathways are directly attributable to quality jobs,” Couchman said. “Between learning how to become an aircraft mechanic or how to operate a drone or exploring virtual environments, the K-State Salina campus is offering nontraditional access to industries with budding career potential.”
Written By: Abbigail Marshall
