High School for Construction Trades, Engineering and Architecture

At the High School for Construction Trades, Engineering and Architecture students draw blueprints, wire electrical circuits and learn to use power tools, along with participating in a regular academic program. For some, the school leads to unionized apprenticeships in the construction trades. For others, it offers a strong background in engineering or architecture that prepares them for a four-year college.

Opened in 2006 in a new building in Ozone Park, the school has become a popular choice for students looking for in-depth career education and hands-on projects. Almost everyone graduates on time, and more than half receive the demanding Advanced Regents diploma.

In ninth grade, students become familiar with all three disciplines of construction, engineering and architecture. In the upper grades they specialize. After graduation, many students go on to become carpenters, electricians, painters or attend colleges and universities including Cornell University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NYU Polytech, Syracuse, and City Colleges of Engineering and Architecture, according to the school’s yearly plan.

Designed to encourage young women and non-whites to consider careers in the construction trades, the school has partnerships with the National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering and Nontraditional Employment for Women. About three-quarters of students are Asian, black, or Latino. However, just one-third of students are female. 

After school, students participate in robotics, portfolio development programs, and a handful of PSAL sports including cricket, handball, and track.

SPECIAL EDUCATION: There is an increasing population of students with special needs, some of whom are in special classes. Some students receive support from guidance counselors, speech therapists, paraprofessionals, or one-on-one mentors. The building also houses a District 75 program for students with more severe disabilities.

ADMISSIONS: Most successful applicants have a grade point average of 80 or above. There are three programs: engineering, architecture and construction trades. There are far more applicants than seats available. (Katharine Safter web reports, May 2018)