Summer Credential Programs

The Electrical Interim Credential Program provides an opportunity to gain theoretical and hands-on experience working with electricity and begin developing the skills necessary for a career as an electrician.

This online course introduces students to the National Electrical Code (NEC), proper safety procedures, DC theory, blueprint reading, and basic circuit design. Upon successful completion, if you join the Electrical Union as an apprentice, your first year of Related Supplemental Instruction can be waived.

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The Environmental Services Program is an opportunity to gain hands-on experience with the City of Tacoma's environmental scientists and develop skills necessary for a career in environmental sciences. The Certified Erosion & Soil Control Lead (CESCL) certification trains students in erosion and sediment control that safeguard natural habitats. In addition, participants will be offered a few days of training related to water plant operations.

Must be at least 17 years old to receive certifications. Younger students may apply but are not eligible to earn certifications.

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The GAF Roofing Academy is designed to help students build the necessary skills for entry-level positions. The program combines classroom and on-the-roof training with access to job opportunities from GAF’s national network of thousands of independent, certified contractors seeking talent. Safeguarding, maintaining, and repairing properties—ranging from homes to stadiums—is crucial for long-term sustainability in any building project.

Open only to graduating seniors (can be 17 years old).

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Home Care Aides provide assistance with daily activities, and companionship to individuals in their own homes and in long-term care facilities such as adult family homes, or in assisted living facilities.

A Home Care Aide will work with care teams made up of case managers, nurses and other healthcare professionals. Their duties may include assisting with personal grooming needs, providing transportation, and helping maintain the cleanliness of the home or facility with the resident's safety in mind.  

Must be at least 17 years old to receive certifications. Younger students may apply but are not eligible to earn certifications.

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Through the Merchant Mariner summer program students gain hands-on experience and begin developing the skills necessary for a career working on freighters, oil tankers, tugs, ferries, cruise ships, and fishing boats. The program prepares students for a career with a livable wage in the international realm of transporting goods across the globe. With the Merchant Marine credential earned through this program, numerous employment opportunities become available, including: tug boats, the Washington State ferry system, the Seafarers International Union (deep water ships) and fishing boats in Alaska.

Must be at least 17 years old to receive certifications. Younger students may apply but are not eligible to earn certifications.

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The High School Introduction to Plumbers and Pipefitters program (HIPP) offers an opportunity to gain hands-on experience and begin developing the skills needed to pursue a career in the pipe-trades field.

Students will attain industry-recognized certifications through preparatory training for in-demand, high-wage careers. They will learn welding, soldering, brazing, rigging, tube bending and more through hands-on activities and projects to prepare them for interviews with Local 26-SWWPT.

Must be at least 17 years old to receive certifications. Younger students may apply but are not eligible to earn certifications

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Unmanned vehicle operations includes photographing real estate, conducting building inspections, surveying land worldwide, engaging in military applications, filming movies, fertilizing crops, or providing support for search and rescue missions. Additionally, vehicle operation careers include underwater use.

The Unmanned Vehicle program includes two sections: above-water and below-water.

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The veterinary scribe certificate program is an online course that introduces students to basic anatomy and medical terminology associated with physical exams, diagnostics, and pharmacology. In addition, students learn how to navigate a medical record, including documenting and charting the veterinary visit and associated regulations. This certificate is recommended for individuals interested in starting a career in the medical or veterinary field. 

Must be at least 16 years old to receive certifications. Younger students may apply but are not eligible to earn certifications.

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The Veterinary: Preventative Health is an online course designed to enhance the knowledge of any student interested in a client-facing role in the veterinary industry. Students learn anatomy, physiology, and parasitology. This course can be a good fit for students seeking a career in the veterinary field, including a veterinarian, veterinarian tech, veterinarian assistant, or those hoping to work in a clinic.

This is not an introductory class, students should have completed a medical class and have background knowledge of medical terminology (for example, veterinary at Lincoln or HCA class at Mt. Tahoma/Stadium)  

Must be at least 16 years old to receive certifications. Younger students may apply but are not eligible to earn certifications.

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The Warehouse Logistics program helps prepare students for work in or around the Port of Tacoma. Students learn how to move products and equipment using a variety of lift trucks, and learn how to ensure safety by controlling traffic. Forklift and flagger certifications offer starting wages of around $20 per hour. Additionally, part of this program involves field trips for students to explore job opportunities, meet local employers and connect with community members.

Must be at least 17 years old and have a valid driver’s license. (Forklift certification requires you to be 18 years old.  If a younger student passes the test, the credential will be held until their 18th birthday and then delivered to the school.)

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The Wildland Fire Certification prepares high school students for a career pathway in the wildland fire suppression industry as Type 2 Wildland Firefighters. 

The program consists of four basic firefighter courses required by the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) and provides training and information required by NWCG for agencies subscribing to the National Interagency Management System (NIMS).

Must be at least 17 years old to receive certifications. Younger students may apply but are not eligible to earn certifications.

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