In Tech Prep, high school graduates receive relevant, useful knowledge in high-tech fields. They are employable as effective members of high-tech business and industrial operations. At the same time, the secondary education they receive prepares them for post-secondary education leading to an associate degree. Tech Prep education is a careful balance between modern technology, occupational subjects and traditional academic subjects, the latter taught in a relevant, contextual manner. Tech Prep allows transitions between school and work according to the needs of the student.
Interested students can even move from the associate's degree to a baccalaureate.
Tech Prep is made up of local partnerships of employers, parents, teachers, unions and communities joining together to create meaningful educational experiences. Starting in lower grades, students should be made aware of the world of work. This may include integrating workplace information into curriculum, providing field trips, and mentoring activities. Career exploration, testing and counseling The nature of career paths are explored starting in junior high school. Students are aided in the discovery of their own interests and aptitudes and how they match with careers.