Career Pathways
At AAI, we empower our students to take ownership of their education and encourage them to pursue their academic, vocational, and artistic interests. In addition to Competency-based Education and Project-based Learning , our Career and Technical Education (CTE) Pathways are another way in which we inspire students to challenge their potential every day.
The American Academy of Innovation does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, disability, age, or any other classification protected by law in its programs, activities, or employment practices.
Career and Technical Education
Career and Technical Education (CTE) provides all students access to high-quality, rigorous career-focused programs that result in the attainment of credentials with labor market value.
Career and Technical Education makes an impact on youth while preparing them for successful careers. CTE is an essential component of the total educational system in Utah and is critical to the country’s ability to compete in a global economy.
Our vision is to see that every student has the opportunity to explore a variety of career areas, throughout high school, that will equip him or her with the academic knowledge, technical and employability skills vital for entry into the evolving workforce.
What are CTE Pathways?
A CTE Career Pathway is a method of searching for a career that fits a students’ interests and lifestyle and allows him or her to build academic courses around it. Career Pathways ensure that students will be prepared to take advantage of the full range of postsecondary options, including on-the-job training, certification programs, and two- and four-year college degrees.
CTE Pathways at AAI
Animal and Veterinary Science
Your fascination with horses, love of puppies, or passion for marine life may be the spark that leads you to a career within the animal kingdom. Gain the knowledge and skills to care for animals and open yourself up to future opportunities. You could be the next Crocodile Hunter. Check out the possibilities!
- Artificial Inseminator
- Livestock Auctioneer
- Shipping Coordinator
- Herdsman
- Livestock Buyer
- Veterinary Assistant / Technologist & Technician
- Animal Nutrition Specialist
- Farm / Ranch Manager
Programming and Software Development
Your curiosity about software and user interfaces could lead to exciting opportunities. Want to get into the artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning domain? Want to become a data scientist or data engineer? Want to make a career in web development or game development? This may be the start of an enjoyable career.
- Entry Level Programmer
- Computer Systems Analyst
- Game Play Programmer
- Software Developer
- Software Engineer
- System Software Programmer
- Nearly every job in the future
Broadcasting and Digital Media
Do you have a passion for storytelling, technology, and creativity? Do you thrive on the challenge of producing compelling content for diverse audiences? See what fulfilling careers await you in this rewarding and dynamic field.
- Camera Operator
- Designer
- Graphic Artist
- Videographer Editor
- Audio Technician
- Audio Video Equipment Technician
- Broadcast Technician
- Production Specialist
- Audio Engineer
- Motion Graphic Artist
- Producer
Welding and machining
Join a vital and highly-skilled workforce, essential in industries like aerospace, automotive, energy, electronics and manufacturing. Use cutting-edge technology and sophisticated machinery to fabricate precision parts and components. The demand for expert machinists is high. Your potential to make a big impact begins right here.
- Tool and Die Maker
- Tool Maker
- Welder
- Machine Tool Technician
- Welding Technician
- Machine Tool Engineer
- Welding Engineer
Business Administration
If you dream about building a start-up or you set your sights on climbing to the top of a large business corporation like Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, or Tesla, take the first steps in a career to set yourself up for success in the high-powered and rewarding field of business administration. Key skills such as leadership, organization, and effective communication will take you far. Reach for the stars!
- Account Representative
- Consumer Advocate
- Dispute Resolution Analyst
- Budget Analyst
- Credit Counselor
- Financial Manager
College and Career Awareness
A 7th-grade course designed to increase awareness of college and career pathways through simulations and project-based experiences. This course explores high school, college, and career options based on individual student interests, abilities, and skills. Students will investigate high-skill and/or in-demand jobs in the Utah labor market while developing workplace skills.
Animal and Veterinary Science
Whether your dream is to be a veterinarian, a rancher, a farmer, or maybe a horse dentist, the first steps begin with our Animal & Veterinary Science courses developed and taught by Kathy Nuttall, an expert in the field and Utah's leading animal science educator.
Broadcasting and Digital Media
Unleash your creativity with Broadcasting and Digital Media at AAI. Step into a world where creativity meets cutting-edge technology. Here's what is waiting for you!
Business Administration
Gain the essential skills and knowledge at AAI needed to thrive in today's dynamic business environment. By integrating practical experience with theoretical learning, you will be prepared to excel in various business roles and to pursue higher education in business-related fields.
Programming and Software Development
Delve into the realms of programming, computer science, and game development at AAI. Here, you will gain a robust foundation in coding, problem-solving, and creative thinking that will prepare you for a future in the fast-paced tech industry.
Welding and Machining
Learn the essential skills and knowledge to safely operate advanced machinery in a modern, well-equipped facility designed for hands-on learning and innovation. At AAI, we have partnered with the world class Gene Haas Foundation in providing you with cutting-edge equipment and technology. You'll be ready to shape your own future with a career in precision engineering.
Career and Technical Student Associations
Career and Technical Student Associations (CTO) present organized activities for students to gain personal and leadership skills, making them more employable, preparing them to become productive citizens, and assisting them in assuming positive roles in the home and community. They are not after-school clubs where only a few CTE students belong, but a powerful instructional tool integrated into the CTE classroom. CTSOs help students develop leadership skills and positive work values, while reinforcing the Career and Technical Education curriculum.
Future Farmers of America (FFA)
The organization for agricultural education students. FFA is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of young people by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. Utah has 6,567 members in 89 chapters.
Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)
Future Business Leaders of America, Inc. is an education association with more than 200,000 middle school, high school, and college members worldwide. FBLA inspires and prepares students to become community-minded business leaders in a global society through relevant career preparation and leadership experiences. The association is headquartered in Reston, Virginia, just outside of Washington, D.C. For more information, visit fbla.org.
Distributive Education Clubs of American (DECA)
An association of marketing students. DECA is a student leadership organization that provides hands-on leadership development. Students learn how to develop, price, place, and promote products in the right business setting. The organization builds self-confidence, positive work attitudes, and communication skills. Utah has 2,898 members in 71 chapters.
CTE Career Pathway Resources
AAI's CTE Career Pathways help students figure out their futures and get a head start towards achieving their goals. AAI students take CTE courses to:
- Obtain valuable skills such as learning to code, building a robot, or how to perform CPR for your pet.
- Research various career paths, paying particular attention to what the current demands are in the job market, and learning from others at school or from professionals in a particular field.
- Explore the CTE skill certifications you can work towards while in high school. Skill certifications will set you apart when applying for college or that first job after graduation. It may shape the career you eventually choose to pursue.
Find Your Career
The Department of Workforce Services provides online tools to help job seekers understand Utah's economy and make data-driven decisions. To begin your search, visit Economic Data for Career Exploration.