Exterior of the CTECH building

Learn about CTECH

Career and Technical Education Center at Heintz (CTECH) is a dynamic collaboration between Rochester Public Schools, Rochester Community and Technical College, and our professional community. CTECH offers inspiring hands-on programs, combining rigorous coursework with project based learning in a collaborative setting for students who want to gain a deep understanding of, and actively participate in, high demand professions.

Student posing for a photo after being recognized for his work in a welding competition

Students waiting outside of the CTECH building for class.

CTECH students in the kitchen for hospitality class.

In 2012, the city of Rochester decided to allocate sales tax dollars to create a unique learning environment for the students of Southeastern Minnesota. In 2013, 6.5 million dollars were collected from tax dollars and given to Rochester Career and Technical College to build an additional facility on their land. This property would be maintained by RCTC; however, daytime programming for high school students from the area would be provided by the staff of Rochester Public Schools.   

The community determined the pathways based on their future employment needs. Additionally, community members worked with educators from RCTC and RPS to develop the content of the courses in each pathway. 

Courses were designed to meet the needs of three types of learners: 

  • Students who wanted to go directly from high school into the workforce. Certifications, including Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Safe Serv can be obtained through CTECH courses.

  • Students that want to continue into higher education. Opportunities to earn college credit will exist in many of the pathways. Examples of this include articulated credit through RCTC in Welding, SIM, and residential construction.  University of MN credit can be obtained through our Intro to Psychology and Intro to Teaching Courses.

  • Students who are undetermined of their future plans. CTECH courses are a great way to explore a variety of career opportunities. Students will have the opportunity to interact with professionals in these fields at this time, providing a deeper understanding of each pathway.

Visit CTECH

If you are interested in taking a tour of CTECH or learning more about our program, please contact Kari Sikkema at (507) 328-5780.

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