In today’s rapidly evolving job market, practical skills and hands-on experience are more crucial than ever. The Leona Group (TLG) schools recognize the importance of equipping students with not only academic knowledge but also functional competencies that pave the way for successful careers. From cutting-edge technology courses and skilled trades to business and health sciences, our programs are tailored to meet the needs of an ever-changing economy. Our career and technical training programs are designed to bridge the gap between education and the workforce, offering students valuable opportunities to explore and excel in various trades and professions. TLG schools' career and technical training programs are empowering students with the expertise, experience and confidence to thrive in their chosen fields and make meaningful decisions about their future.

Pontiac Academy for Excellence’s Career Technical Education (CTE) program, in partnership with Oakland Schools, is providing 19 students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in specialized fields. Oakland Schools Technical Campuses (OSTC) offer extensions to learning for county schools to support students’ interests, skills and goals. Through this collaboration students participate in afternoon sessions that explore careers in nursing, computer programming, construction, automotive technology, machining and culinary arts. These programs equip students with valuable employment skills and practical knowledge to prepare them for future success.

One standout student, 12th grader Julien Deems, is pursuing automotive technology and has been featured on the cover of Oakland Schools' 2024-2025 program guide. This recognition highlights the dedication and talent of PAE's CTE students, showcasing their commitment to excellence and passion for their chosen career paths.

Students at CCAH have access to a variety of career-focused programs through partnerships with top colleges and universities. The Middle College Trade Program at Henry Ford College allows students to earn certifications in Medical Assisting, HVAC, Cyber Security, the Apple Program and Mechatronics. Through the IDRAW program with the University of Detroit Mercy, students explore STEM careers with mentoring, field trips and dual enrollment opportunities.

Students can take advantage of dual enrollment opportunities at Wayne State University, which offers career pathways in education, business and medicine, as well as the Weekend Warrior program, which provides Saturday college courses for those with after-school commitments. Those interested in fashion can enroll in Central Michigan University’s fashion merchandising course, supported by a Carhartt grant. Additional dual enrollment options include coursework at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, Wayne County Community College and the College for Creative Studies. These programs give students early exposure to college-level learning, industry certifications and pathways to career success.

Click here to see the variety of opportunity flyers available to CCAH students.

Academy for Business and Technology Middle/High, Detroit Public Safety Academy and Hope of Detroit Academy Middle/High are participating in a consortium to collectively provide extended learning opportunities to students, specifically in regards to career training. Students participating in TLG Shared Elective courses can earn credits toward graduation simultaneously as they earn college credits, work toward certification/licensure required for specific careers and prepare to take board exams. The Firefighter and Emergency and Medical Technician programs allow students to earn college credit through dual enrollment credit with Wayne County Community College, while students receive training to pass required career path exams.

These Detroit academies also partner with to create opportunities for TLG students to learn the critical computerized manufacturing and workforce skills necessary for modern production. Helping Hands Training Program provides the platform for practical training in the nursing field, with an opportunity to test for certification in Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) after course completion. Long-term plans for the consortium include offering more vocational and career technical classes to provide a sophisticated training experience for students while they are still in high school.