DOWNINGTOWN, PA — This summer, Technical College High School (TCHS) campuses in Downingtown, Phoenixville, and West Grove hosted their annual Summer Career Academies program. The initiative provided rising sixth through ninth graders with a unique opportunity to explore various career paths.
Students from TCHS Brandywine Campus, TCHS Pickering Campus, and TCHS Pennock’s Bridge Campus engaged in two academies each, selecting from over 13 career fields. Offerings ranged from health career pathways and electronics to animal science and graphic design. Each program was taught by experienced professionals eager to share their knowledge.
Claire Conlow, an eighth grader from Twin Valley Middle School, found the program’s diversity and practical lessons valuable. She participated in the Criminal Investigation and Cosmetology academies and is excited to return next year to deepen her exploration of these fields. “Criminal investigation has a lot of hands-on activities,” Conlow noted. “We’re now first-aid and CPR certified, which we can use in the future.”
Jayna Desai, a student at Marsh Creek Sixth Grade Center, also found the certificate-earning aspect of the program rewarding. After exploring multiple career paths through the Tomorrow’s Millionaires and Criminal Investigation programs, she shared her ambitions of becoming a math sports analyst and owning a baking business.
Program coordinator Becky Greene emphasized the impact of these experiences on young students. “Many middle school-aged students have no idea what they want to do when they get older,” Greene explained. “It is so powerful to see the kids’ expressions when they realize that they can attend a school where they can learn about a trade or earn a certificate.”
Greene noted that the program often sees students returning for multiple summers to try new programs or reconnect with favored instructors. “All of our teachers are really nice and give us our own one-on-one time,” said Emilia Rossi, a sixth grader at Octorara Intermediate School. “I’m already picking out which academies I’m going to do next year!”
The Summer Career Academies continue to be a beacon for young students, guiding them towards their future professions and providing hands-on experience in a variety of fields. For more information on enrollment for the 2025 program, visit the TCHS website.
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