Your Child's Future
In Skilled Trades
Career Technical Education (CTE) programs prepare your child for a high-wage career without four-year college debt. Here's what you need to know about Career Technical Education in Marin County — and how Shifting Gears USA can help.
The Case for Skilled Trades
Skilled trades offer your child a clear, debt-free path to a high-paying career — often earning more than many college graduates.
No Student Debt
Trade school costs a fraction of a 4-year university. Many apprenticeships are paid — your child earns while they learn.
High Demand
The Bay Area faces a critical shortage of skilled tradespeople. Electricians, plumbers, and welders are in high demand.
Job Security
Skilled trades cannot be outsourced or automated. These are recession-resistant careers with long-term stability.
Fast Track
Your child can start a career in 1–4 years vs. 4–6 years for a college degree. They start earning sooner.
Marin County students in hands-on Career Technical Education (CTE) classes — automotive and construction trades.
Bay Area vs. National Wages
Bay Area tradespeople earn significantly more than the national average. Source: BLS OEWS, San Francisco MSA (May 2023).
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward MSA, May 2023. Growth projections: BLS OOH, 2024–2034.
How You Can Help Your Child
Talk to Their Counselor
Ask about CTE and CAPP programs available at your child's school. Counselors can enroll students and explain program requirements.
Encourage the Application
Scholarship applications for 2025–2026 are now closed. The next cycle opens in early 2027 — subscribe to our newsletter to be notified.
Explore Career Days
Shifting Gears USA hosts career days where students meet tradespeople, see real shops, and get inspired. Check our Events page for dates.
Parent Questions Answered
Is a four-year college degree required for these careers?
No. Skilled trades require trade school, community college programs, or apprenticeships — typically 1–4 years. Students can start earning full wages much sooner than college graduates, with zero student loan debt.
Are these careers stable and in demand?
Yes. Electricians are projected to grow 9% through 2034 (BLS). Construction is at 7%. These trades cannot be outsourced or automated — they require skilled hands on-site.
How do I know if my child is enrolled in a CTE or Car Appreciation and Preservation Program (CAPP)?
Check with your child's school counselor. Here is where each program is currently offered: Car Appreciation and Preservation Program (CAPP) — Terra Linda High School (active now), Novato High School (coming Fall 2026). Construction — Intro to BCT A – Building at Terra Linda High School (active now); Intro to BCT B – Trades at Novato High School (coming Fall 2026). Medical — San Marin High School (active now).
How much is the scholarship award?
Scholarships are awarded up to $2,500 per year. Awards are paid directly to the trade school or program, not to the student.
What does my child need to apply?
A completed online application, current transcripts, a personal statement (why they want to pursue this career), and one letter of recommendation from a teacher or counselor.
When is the application deadline?
April 30, 2026 for the current cycle. Applications open in January each year.
Still have questions?
Contact UsMarin County Civil Grand Jury:
"The Status of Career Technical Education (CTE) in Marin County"
In 2019, the Marin County Civil Grand Jury published an independent investigation into Career Technical Education in local schools. Their findings confirmed what Shifting Gears USA has long advocated: Marin's college-focused culture leaves many students behind. Approximately half of all Marin high school graduates end up with little or no formal education beyond their diploma — yet Career Technical Education (CTE) programs that could serve them remain under-promoted and under-resourced.