Newton College and Career Academy student Mac Gibson III interviews students in Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) and discusses how these prepare them for life beyond high school.

From SkillsUSA to FFA, FBLA to TSA, career and technical student organizations help Newton College and Career Academy students prepare for life beyond high school.

CTSOs aren’t just clubs. They’re training grounds for the next generation of professionals. By building workplace, leadership, and technical skills, CTSOs prepare students for competitive careers in healthcare, agriculture, business, engineering, and beyond.

SkillsUSA gives students a chance to strengthen workforce skills and compete on a national level.

“Yeah, SkillsUSA is about students learning how to build their workforce skills, and we go off to competitions to show off our skills,” explained Mikayla Bartley, SkillsUSA Member. “Being a president, it was easy to network with a lot of companies for my future career.”

The program focuses on developing personal, workplace, and technical skills through real-world experiences and competitions.

Future Farmers of America (FFA) provides hands-on training in areas such as welding, electrical wiring, and woodworking, while also teaching leadership and agricultural science. 

Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) Future Health Professionals equips students for careers in healthcare through leadership training, teamwork, and industry exposure. 

Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) helps students discover their potential in business by teaching financial management, entrepreneurship, and communication.

Family, Career, Community, Leaders of America (FCCLA) specializes in helping students prepare for their future careers and focuses on obtaining leadership skills, communication skills, and workforce skills. DECA-Distributive Education Clubs of America prepares students to develop essential skills in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management through a variety of real-world projects and leadership training.

The Technology Student Association (TSA) serves students interested in building their skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through competitions, leadership activities, and community service projects. 

“TSA is about leadership strategies and engineering skills," Kayden Phyall said. "We do a lot to communicate with other people and help them step outside of their comfort zone.”

With the foundation built through CTSOs, these students are poised to succeed well beyond graduation. Their leadership, technical expertise, and collaboration skills are preparing them not only for college and careers but also for lifelong growth and contribution to their communities.