Career and Technical Education (CTE) spaces are more than just classrooms: they are gateways to future careers, designed to align with community needs and resources. At Wold, we work with local stakeholders to design environments that support programs tailored to the community. In Colorado’s Sheridan School District, administrators sought to provide an alternate education pathway to students who could benefit from a career-oriented approach to secondary education. Our team was engaged to support the addition of a space for trade unions to assist students in alternate career paths.
CTE programs target students who aren’t interested in the college route or need exposure to different careers, and they engage specialized instructors to combine curriculum with work experience and training. Given the deficit in existing carpentry, plumbing, electrical and HVAC workers, District Superintendent Pat Sandos saw the opportunity for a successful CTE program at Sheridan High School. With involvement from industry partners and local trade unions, a supportive district and a thriving local construction industry, the only need was a space to implement the program and empower the emerging workforce.
To help make this program a reality, the district brought in our team. For a project focused on unlocking the potential of Sheridan’s student population, we turned our attention to one local building that provided an opportunity to support the CTE program. The district owned a long-abandoned recreation center with an empty swimming pool, initially deemed too expensive to renovate. Our team envisioned a revitalized space to support the program and set out to transform it into a functional hub for modern trade education.
To address the unique challenges of maximizing the recreation center space, we began by leveling the pool to create a flat surface that would open up space for a two-story structure and an elevator. Through meticulous space planning, we designed a dynamic learning environment spanning over 10,000 square feet and fully equipped to support classes in locally vital trades.
Our team worked closely with the district to ensure the space met all educational requirements and could adapt to future needs. We integrated modern mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems and made exterior improvements, including new windows, a new roof and two pedestrian walkways, to enhance the building's functionality and aesthetic appeal.
“Our relationship with Wold dates back years and spans several successful projects, so we knew we could count on their expertise in this endeavor,” said Superintendent Pat Sandos. “We were excited to work with familiar faces with whom we could be frank and honest in our conversations, and we greatly appreciated the level of investment the Wold team demonstrated in the success of our kids.”
Our team worked with the district to overcome challenges in planning, cost and design. With no precedent for any similar projects and a back-and-forth approval and funding process, we stood with Sheridan School District at each turn and advocated for the importance of the new space. Thinking critically about the design to determine which elements were necessary for the space and which were luxuries, we adapted our plans accordingly to best fit the district’s needs.
“For a project that required expert customization in the design process, Wold’s expertise was invaluable,” said Sandos. “A unique space and program called for unique design considerations, and the Wold team helped us identify where to focus our efforts to achieve the best possible outcome.”
CTE unlocks opportunities for students while meeting them at their current academic and life stages. In Colorado, these programs are gaining traction as administrators across the state recognize the benefits of career-focused educational opportunities, including reaching disadvantaged youth and providing pathways from difficult life circumstances to successful careers. Industries like construction and engineering are actively seeking new talent, and connecting students with local employers delivers a direct and immediate impact by creating jobs for young adults.
Through CTE programs, students connect with their community, learn from local trade experts and see the real-world impact of their work. What starts as a trade class in a converted swimming pool can lead to apprenticeships and, ultimately, a fulfilling career in the communities that raised them.
CTE programs empower students and community members to take pride in local industries. At Sheridan High School, students celebrate their program achievements and involvement with local companies at “signing day,” a heartwarming ceremony where they commit to their apprenticeships. We’re honored to equip these students and look forward to helping many more start meaningful careers in the trades.
If your district is looking to implement a CTE program and would like to engage our team’s expertise, we invite you to connect with us here.
