Each of the Rocket Academy’s pathways directly reflects a degree program offered by Lakeshore Technical College (LTC). All courses taken will either be dual-credit or will receive Start College Now credits at LTC. Below you can learn more about the specific skills, and opportunities that exist within each of the career pathways.

Career Pathways

Precision Machining Technology (available now)

Just about every product that you use in your daily activities is the result of a machine tool manufacturing process. If you like hands-on work, are detail-oriented, have good math skills, and are able to develop and follow through on work instructions, a career in machine tool operation offers you lifelong career opportunities. LEARN MORE

Welding (Beginning 2024-2025 school year)

Evidence of welders’ work is all around us—everything from battleships, cars, and piping to the amazing dome on the U.S. Capitol Building. If you like hands-on work, have solid math and reading skills, are dedicated to accuracy, and have an eye for detail, welding is the perfect career for you. LEARN MORE

Building Trades Fundamentals with a Focus on Heating & Cooling (Beginning 2024-2025 school year)

The HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) & Building Trades Fundamentals Embedded Technical Diploma is a great first step for an entry-level position in the Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVACR) fields. This training prepares individuals to install residential and light commercial HVACR systems used for the environmental control of buildings and product processes. LEARN MORE

Advanced Manufacturing Maintenance Mechanic (2025 + beyond)

Machines are important in our lives—directly or indirectly. Broken or inefficient machines slow the pace of manufacturing and, ultimately, profits. To remain competitive in today’s fast-paced industrial/manufacturing environment, equipment needs to be maintained to run at peak performance. If you like to troubleshoot problems, put theory to work in practice, and have an interest in math and mechanical processes, a career in industrial maintenance may be your key to success. LEARN MORE

Electro-Mechanical Maintenance Technician ( 2025 + beyond)

Times are changing in the field of Maintenance. Facilities are running with both manual and automated equipment (i.e. robotic arms) and both need to be maintained and repaired. If you like to troubleshoot, work with your hands, and have an interest in math, electrical, and mechanical processes, a career in Maintenance is for you. This career pathway is for those who are interested in technology, and individuals who are wanting to work in today’s most modern and fully automated facilities. LEARN MORE