Is CATEC For You?

Charlottesville-Albemarle Technical Education Center (CATEC) is a school that offers many different trade courses. CATEC is located in Albemarle County, so for Fluvanna students, it is a very close and an overall good choice for getting into trades after high school.

CATEC’s High School Program of Studies offers many different trade options such as Automotive Service/Body Technology, Building trades, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, Electricity, Veterinary Science, and more. If you go to Albemarle County Public Schools or Charlottesville City Public Schools, CATEC offers students 10 different course options free of charge. CATEC is also offering a small amount of enrollments completely free for FCHS students. FCHS has 15 students who requested CATEC classes for next year. Post-Grad students need to fill out an application on their website and pay a $500 tuition. Students who attend and complete CATEC courses have the opportunity to receive certifications or credentials in the industry of their choice, which will help them further down the line if they stick with that career. CATEC also offers online courses for a few of the available options.

Their programs meet for half a day and include practical, hands-on training in a variety of course options. FCHS will also provide transportation to and from CATEC for the first half of the day. To get help with enrolling in CATEC from high school, students should speak with their counselor for help.

If you are interested in doing a trade after college, CATEC offers adult education and apprenticeships. “The career and technical offerings will help life-long learners: enhance current skills, gain new knowledge for increased job marketability, continue life-long learning, make life more enjoyable, or simply have fun.” This is a quote from CATECs website that embraces their ability to teach anyone a trade. They offer several courses for completely different age ranges and offer many opportunities to people.

Overall, CATEC is probably the best choice for local students that want to get into a trade. It is a relatively cheap, close, and trustworthy path to follow. CATEC’s instructors are very knowledgeable and have been proudly teaching trades since 1973.