Student Activities
At Collins Career Technical Center, students can access various extracurricular activities that enhance their career-focused education and personal growth. Students can build professional skills while pursuing their passions by participating in leadership organizations like SkillsUSA, HOSA, FCCLA, and FFA and joining competitive teams such as Esports Ohio. Through Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs), students connect classroom learning to real-world applications, gaining leadership experience, confidence, and career-ready expertise. These national programs align with Career and Technical Education (CTE) and offer opportunities like competitions, workshops, and community partnerships, preparing students for success in college and future careers.
At Collins, we encourage students to stay engaged in home school activities, such as sports, band, and other clubs, ensuring they remain connected to their traditional high school experiences. Whether competing in state and national events, participating in community service projects, or excelling in CTSO initiatives, students are empowered to grow as leaders, problem-solvers, and future professionals. By integrating dynamic extracurricular options with hands-on learning, Collins Career Technical Center equips students for a bright and prosperous future.
What is a Career Technical Student Organization (CTSO)
Career Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) are extracurricular groups that allow students to apply their classroom learning in real-world settings, develop leadership skills, and prepare for future careers. These organizations are designed to complement career technical education (CTE) programs by offering students a platform to enhance their technical, academic, and personal skills through hands-on experiences, competitions, and community involvement.
CTSOs align with various career pathways, such as health sciences, business, technology, skilled trades, agriculture, and more, allowing students to deepen their knowledge and expertise in their chosen field.
What Does Participation Mean for a Student?
Participating in a CTSO offers numerous benefits that extend beyond the classroom. These include:
- Skill Development: Students gain industry-relevant skills, including problem-solving, critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership. CTSOs also help students master technical skills specific to their career pathway.
- Competitions: Many CTSOs host local, state, and national competitions where students can showcase their knowledge and abilities in real-world scenarios, such as public speaking, project management, or technical problem-solving.
- Networking Opportunities: Students connect with peers, educators, and industry professionals, building a valuable network that can support their career aspirations.
- Leadership and Professional Growth: CTSOs offer roles such as chapter officers or committee leaders, providing hands-on experience organizing events, managing teams, and representing their organization.
- Career and College Readiness: CTSO participation often includes access to scholarships, internships, and certifications, giving students a competitive edge when pursuing higher education or entering the workforce.
- Community Engagement: Many CTSOs emphasize service projects and community involvement, helping students develop a sense of social responsibility and civic duty.
By participating in a CTSO, students enhance their academic and technical knowledge and build confidence, resilience, and adaptability—key traits that prepare them for lifelong success.