Exploring your career options
Explore
It is possible to start a career right out of high school with specific training and/or with a company that provides on-the-job training and career advancement opportunities. There are many careers and local employers in manufacturing, skilled trades and information technology that pay great wages and benefits!
Websites to visit
What you need to know and do
The Portland/Vancouver area is lucky to have many companies that hire youth straight out of high school and provide tuition assistance for attending local colleges, providing opportunities to get college paid for while advancing skills and knowledge.
Use the search feature in Xello to find careers that require a high school diploma within the range of salary you are hoping to earn.
Downloadable resources
What you need to know and do
Your career center may offer opportunities to meet representatives from local businesses, participate in practice interviews and learn more about career opportunities. Students will create their first resume in their 11th grade English class as part of their High School and Beyond Plan.
VPS offers many career and technical magnet programs in our high schools. Career-focused training courses are also offered at Cascadia Tech Academy and transportation is provided for students.
Take advantage of paid internships, work experience or pre-apprenticeship opportunities that may increase your readiness to launch your career after high school.
What you need to know and do
Stop by the career center at your school to get started on your job applications! There are many resources in person and online to support your job search.
Attend local career fairs to meet employers who are hiring.
Most companies advertise for open positions online, and there are many resources to help you find current job openings and opportunities.
Latest ideas
Paid Summer Internships!
VPS will be offering students a paid 60-hour internship opportunity plus 30-hours of work readiness training. You must be 16 years old by June 23rd
Aviation Experience – Sign Up by June 15
Rising 6th – 12th Grade Students - Fly with Us! Meet pilots, engineers and technicians in the aerospace industry! This introduction to aviation careers allows
Become a Lifeguard and Get a Job!
Are you interested in becoming a lifeguard or developing new job skills? The Jim Parsley Community Center offers International Lifeguard Training to persons 15 years
CTE Teachers Wanted!
CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION (CTE) is seeking innovative people interested in teaching kids about their industry! There are CURRENT openings for Business/Marketing, Digital Arts and
Seniors Going to Clark College – Get Help
Hey graduating seniors, sign-up to get help registering for Clark College! Newly graduated high school students can join Clark College staff for Launch Pad to
$19.75/hour at Distribution Center
Join the Dollar Tree Distribution Center Team in Ridgefield. Must be 18 years old to be considered. No experience necessary and will train. Wages start