Launch the media gallery 1 playerExploring Illinois Career Pathways at Pleasant Hill High School
March 13, 2026
Pleasant Hill High School provides students with valuable opportunities to explore future careers through its Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways. These pathways align with the Illinois Career Pathways Initiative, which helps students connect classroom learning to real-world careers. Through hands-on coursework and industry-aligned programs, students can begin preparing for college, technical training, or the workforce while still in high school.
What Are Illinois Career Pathways?
Illinois Career Pathways are structured sequences of courses that allow students to explore a career field while building practical skills and academic knowledge. These pathways help students:
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Discover career interests
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Develop technical and employability skills
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Earn industry-recognized certifications
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Prepare for postsecondary education or immediate employment
Each pathway typically begins with an introductory course, progresses through skill-building classes, and may culminate in advanced coursework, certifications, or dual credit opportunities.
Career Pathways at Pleasant Hill High School
Pleasant Hill High School offers five Career and Technical Education areas that reflect the Illinois career pathway model. These programs allow students to explore different industries and develop specialized skills.
Hospitality & Tourism
Students interested in culinary careers can follow a pathway that builds knowledge in food preparation, nutrition, and restaurant management. Courses include:
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Intro to Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS)
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Foods & Nutrition 1 & 2
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Food Science & Culinary Arts
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Culinary Occupations
Students may also earn Food Service Handler and Food Manager certifications, providing valuable credentials for employment in the food service industry.
Family & Human Services
This pathway focuses on fashion, textiles, and design. Students develop creative and technical skills through courses such as:
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Intro to FACS
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Sewing & Textiles 1
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Sewing & Textiles 2
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Fashion Design & Merchandising
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Textile & Design Occupations
These classes prepare students for careers in fashion design, retail merchandising, and textile production.
Manufacturing Systems
Students interested in construction, engineering, or skilled trades can explore manufacturing-related courses such as:
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Intro to Industrial Arts
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Cabinet Making 1
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Cabinet Making 2
These courses teach woodworking, design, and fabrication skills that are valuable in construction, manufacturing, and trade professions.
Finance & Business
The business pathway helps students build financial literacy, leadership skills, and entrepreneurship knowledge through courses including:
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Intro to Business
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Entrepreneurship
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Accounting 1
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Accounting 2
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CEO (JWCC – Business Leadership 1 & 2)
This pathway prepares students for careers in business management, finance, accounting, and entrepreneurship.
Agriculture, Food, & Natural Resources
Agriculture is a strong pathway that offers several specialized areas, including animal science, plant science, and agricultural mechanics. Courses include:
Animal Systems
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Intro to Agriculture
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Animal Science
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Large or Small Animal Systems
Plant Systems
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Intro to Agriculture
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Intro to Horticulture
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Crop Science
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Soil Science
Power, Structure, & Technical Systems
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Ag Engine Maintenance
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Advanced Ag Mechanics
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Ag Welding
Students may also participate in technical training programs such as:
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QAVTC Metalworking & Welding Fabrication
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QAVTC Automotive Technology
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QAVTC Diesel Equipment Technology
Preparing Students for the Future
Career Technical Education programs like those at Pleasant Hill High School help students gain practical experience, career awareness, and valuable technical skills. Whether students plan to attend college, pursue technical training, or enter the workforce directly after graduation, these career pathways give them a strong foundation for success.
By connecting education with real-world opportunities, Illinois Career Pathways ensure that students graduate with direction, skills, and confidence for their future careers.
