Programs are designed to provide high school students with options that prepare them for high tech careers in computer-integrated manufacturing, electronics, health care, computer information systems, and interactive media production. In the 11th grade, students select one of the 5 occupational areas along with high level courses in math, science, and communications. Students then continue their education at Lakeland Community College and pursue an associate degree in technology. The Lakeland Tech Prep Consortium has a wide range of partnerships with secondary and postsecondary educators, local businesses, civic organizations, and regional economic development councils.
Local employers have a significant influence in the development of each tech prep program.
A number of companies are paying tuition or providing a scholarship to Lakeland Community College for the interns. Other companies contributed to the Lakeland Tech Prep Scholarship Fund. The consortium supports the supervisors of tech prep students with mentorship training. Lakeland, Lorain, and Cuyahoga Community Colleges share a National Science Foundation grant with Cleveland State University. The project integrates the efforts of the participating educational and industrial partners and establishes a seamless approach to manufacturing education that addresses the needs of regional employers.