Work Based Learning

Career Pathways

The Southwest Colorado Education Collaborative (SWCEC) focuses on a variety of career pathways informed by regional workforce demands. Each pathway highlights programs offered by regional high school and college partners. SWCEC prepares students for future careers through Work-Based Learning activities, such as guest speaker sessions, job and college fairs, hands-on experiences at job sites, and internships with industry partners.

By participating in these pathways, students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to secure family-sustaining wages in their chosen fields.

  • Designed for students interested in construction and technical trades, this pathway offers exposure to machining, fabrication, HVAC, electrical, and plumbing skills while fostering standardized competencies across the region.

  • Prepares students for careers in healthcare by introducing them to a wide variety of specializations within the sector.

  • Focused on stewardship of the environment and natural resources, this pathway includes elements of outdoor recreation, land and wildlife management, and ecosystem services.

  • Supports students interested in teaching careers. SWCEC has invested in building robust Early Childhood Education (ECE) programs within member districts. These courses help students explore child development, teaching methods, and practical skills essential for working with young learners. The program emphasizes the importance of high-quality education for children and prepares students for post-secondary teaching programs or immediate entry into ECE roles.

  • A broad pathway encompassing all aspects of tourism, including management, marketing, food services, and entrepreneurship.

Shared Equipment

SWCEC addresses the challenges faced by small rural school districts by leveraging shared resources to provide access to professional-grade equipment that no single district could afford independently. Educators can browse and check out equipment to integrate into their curriculum through a web-based portal called myTurn..

Summer Institutes

SWCEC organizes summer institutes that connect students with industry experts for immersive career exploration.

  • Behind the Drywall

    Focused on construction trades like electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and welding

  • Environmental Careers Institute

    Explores career paths related to the region’s vast natural resources.

  • Health Careers Institute

    Offers hands-on experiences with various healthcare professions.

    *SEE UP AND COMING EVENTS HERE