Explore Student Career
Pathways in Iredell County

Discover the career path options for students in Iredell County. Whether you opt for a job, further education, or military service, each path presents distinct opportunities to help shape your future.

Get Ready For Success and Empower Your Future 

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Iredell County partners believe that planning for graduation starts long before senior year. As early as 5th grade, students in our schools are looking at what their future will look like outside of the walls of our district.

Which way will they go? Students, upon graduation, may elect to continue their education, seek employment, or enlist with a military branch or career in public service.

Discover which pathway is best for you!

Enrollment

Students exploring the Enrollment pathway are interested in continuing their education at a trade school, college, or university. Learn more about programs and resources geared toward students focused on enrollment.
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Employment

Discover the Employment pathway for credentials, apprenticeships, or immediate workplace entry. Ideal for those keen to earn while learning or secure a job after graduation. Explore related programs and career opportunities for students.
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Enlistment

Explore the Enlistment pathway for military or public service, like law enforcement, EMT, or fire protection. Ideal for those seeking tuition benefits or skill development while serving their country. Discover programs and resources for future service members.
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Exploring Middle School Pathways & Career Options

Iredell County believes that career exploration should start in middle school. Understanding the career and technical pathways, courses, and curricula available will support you in exploring careers and interests while helping you earn a credential.

Our public schools offer career options and programs for middle school students and their parents to customize their education and pathways based on their interests, needs, and goals. They provide students with a variety of choice programs to support individual learning, skill development, and career guidance.

To learn more about the choice programs available in Iredell County and Career and Technical Education Pathways, please visit our K-12 page.

Mapping Student Career Pathways

Middle school students are encouraged to complete Interest Inventories to understand what careers would be best for them. This survey allows students to respond to questions and identify the top three Career Clusters of interest based on their responses.

Students will be assigned a guidance counselor, career development coordinator, or graduation coach. They should schedule a meeting to discuss their career interests and course offerings, ask for guidance in selecting classes to fulfill their graduation requirements, and prepare them for their career path.

Learn more about career and technical education opportunities by exploring the Employment, Enrollment, and Enlistment pages.

Explore Career Pathways & Opportunities

Students should take time to research careers to learn more about the types of careers and jobs here in Iredell County. They should also explore the education pathway and wages for different types of career opportunities for students.
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Industry
Career Videos

Frequently Asked Questions

What are career pathways for students?
Student career pathways are specialized programs that allow students to explore their interests and develop skills related to their future. These pathways can include courses, apprenticeships, and other hands-on learning experiences. They can also provide students with industry certifications and college credit.
Choosing a career pathway involves self-reflection and exploration. Students can participate in interest inventories or research different careers to find out what they are interested in. They can also talk to counselors, teachers, and professionals for career guidance for students. Students should choose a pathway that aligns with their interests, skills, and goals.
Exploring career pathways in middle school helps students get a head start on their future. By identifying their interests and exploring middle school career options, they can make informed decisions about their high school courses. They can also gain valuable skills and experience to help them stand out when applying for colleges or jobs.
Each program may have its own specific requirements, but generally, students must be enrolled in the participating school or district and meet certain academic criteria. Some programs may also require an application or interview process.
Yes, students can change their chosen pathway if they decide it’s not the right fit for them. It’s important for students to regularly reassess their interests and goals to ensure they are on the right path. If students wish to change their pathway, they should consult with their counselors for guidance on how to successfully make the transition.