The Career and Technical Education Center at Fairplex
As part of the Fairplex Learning and Development Center, the Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC) empowers high school students to explore their passions and prepare for the future.
Since 2010, our Career Technical Education (CTE) program has helped prepare local high school students for long-term career pathways and higher education. Taught by credentialed CTE instructors, further supported by a college and career services counselor, our students gain real-world skills through classroom learning, engagement with local industry experts, and work-based learning experiences. Our program supports students on their path to high school graduation, connecting them to career opportunities in growing industries while also providing essential soft skills training.
Our CTEC courses are provided at Fairplex as part of the career technical education offerings of the San Antonio Regional Occupational Program (SAROP). San Antonio Regional Occupational Program (SAROP) offers Career Technical Education, Training and certifications to students in the classes held at various school sites throughout Diamond Bar, La Verne, Pomona, and San Dimas . Since 1980, San Antonio Regional Occupational Program has been providing students with high-quality, rigorous, Career Technical Education that prepares them for the global workforce future.
Each semester, we serve between 90-115 high school students who enroll in one of the following CTE pathways:
- Automotive Technology
- Careers in Child Development
- Urban Farming
- Welding/Manufacturing
- Green Energy
These pathways provide hands-on training, career exploration, and essential skill development to help students succeed in today’s rapidly changing workforce.
Three of our pathways—Welding, Urban Farming, and Careers in Child Development—are articulated with community colleges, enabling students to earn college credits and supporting the implementation of an early college model.
Our program is further strengthened by our Career Technical Advisory Committee, which includes 40 representatives from partner school districts, community colleges, industry sectors, and local businesses. This committee offers valuable insights into current labor market trends, helping to inform and continuously improve our Career Technical Education program.
Automotive Technology
CTEC’s Automotive Technology program is a two-year, four-semester course sequence that prepares students for careers in the automotive industry. Beginning with intro to auto, students build hands-on skills in engine repair, electrical systems, and brake service. Taught by industry-certified instructors, the program offers a strong foundation for further training, certification, or entry-level employment. Students also can earn ASE Certifications to enhance their career readiness.
Course Overview
Introduction to Automotive
Learn workplace professionalism, safety practices, tool use, and basic vehicle maintenance. Build foundational skills for working in an automotive environment.
Systems Service and Repair A & B (one semester each)
Gain hands-on experience in automotive maintenance with a focus on brake systems. Learn shop safety, tool operation, hydraulic principles, and diagnostic techniques.
Diagnostic Service Repair
Develop skills to identify and resolve drivability and emissions issues. Prepares students for the ASE L1 Advanced Engine Performance Certification through practical, real-world training.
The Legacy of AXC
The Alex Xydias & Pete Chapouris Center for Automotive Arts (AXC) is named in honor of two legendary pioneers in the hot rod and custom car world.
Alex Xydias, founder of the original So-Cal Speed Shop, set multiple land speed records and helped shape the post-war hot rod culture. Pete Chapouris, a renowned builder, partnered with Alex to relaunch the So-Cal Speed Shop, making it one of the most respected names in automotive history. Their passion for innovation, craftsmanship, and mentorship continues to inspire the next generation of automotive professionals at AXC. Both were supportive of CTEC’s automotive program from its inception.
Industry Roots & Support
AXC was founded through the support of hot rod enthusiasts, automotive leaders, and generous donors, including:
- The Margie & Robert E. Petersen Foundation – honoring Robert Petersen’s legacy through continued investment in youth education.
- SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) – providing student access to the world’s largest automotive trade show and supporting hands-on training.
- LA Roadsters – one of the first organizations to provide generous donations and ongoing support.
Thanks to these partnerships and the vision of our founders, AXC continues to grow as a hub for career-focused automotive education.
Urban Agriculture
CTEC’s Urban Agriculture program is a two-year, four-semester course sequence that immerses students in sustainable agriculture and urban farming through hands-on learning at Fairplex’s five-acre farm. Students build skills in cultivation, nursery work, landscape design, and agri-business while exploring food justice and environmental sustainability.
This program includes industry collaboration and aligns with Mt. San Antonio College, giving students a head start on college credit and careers in agriculture, horticulture, and natural resources.
Course Overview
Intro to Plant Science
Explore agricultural and urban farming practices, alternative farming methods, and build skills through hands-on projects.
Intermediate Plant Science A & B (one semester each)
Through planting, caring for, and harvesting more than 100 specialty crops, students gain hands-on experience in flower care, tree and shrub cultivation, and seasonal crop production.
Advanced Plant Science
Learn about California’s agricultural industry, conservation practices, soil and pests.
Welding and Manufacturing
CTEC’s Welding Manufacturing program is a two-year, four-semester pathway that teaches core welding techniques, materials, and safety practices. Students are prepared for the American Welding Society (AWS) Certification, with coursework aligned to Mt. San Antonio College programs to support credit transfer and continued college-level study.
Course Overview
Intro to Manufacturing
Learn basic welding skills using Oxy/Acetylene cutting (OFC), Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), with a focus on safety, terminology, and equipment setup.
Intermediate Welding: A and B (one semester each)
Build on foundational skills with plasma arc cutting, metal surfacing, and Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), while practicing safety and quality control techniques.
Advanced Welding
Refine welding proficiency in OFC, SMAW, and GMAW techniques with a focus on advanced skill application and safety practices.
Green Energy
This introductory course explores Renewable Energy and Green Utilities, aligning with California’s CTE Energy and Power Technology Pathway.
Course Overview
Students learn the fundamentals of energy production, regulatory systems, and renewable energy technologies through six core units.
Topics include:
- What is Energy? – Understanding energy and its demand.
- Energy Industry and Consumption – How energy is produced and used.
- Introduction to Renewable Energy Sources – Exploring alternative energy options.
- Policy, Economics, and Environmental Impact – The effects of energy use on the environment and economy.
Students apply their knowledge by designing and building a renewable energy prototype in response to a real-world scenario. With a focus on hands-on, project-based learning, this course prepares students for future careers in the growing renewable energy sector.
Careers in Child Development
CTEC’s Careers in Child Development program is a two-year, four-semester course sequence that introduces students to the fundamental principles of child development and the wide range of careers available in early childhood education.
Course Overview
Through a combination of classroom learning and hands-on experience, students explore key developmental stages, positive guidance techniques, and the role of early educators in supporting young children.
The course equips students with the practical skills, knowledge, and professional insight needed to pursue careers in child development, education, and related fields.
Fairplex is a nonprofit, 501(c)5 organization that leads a 500-acre campus proudly located in the City of Pomona. Fairplex exists in a public-private partnership with the County of Los Angeles and is home of the LA County Fair and more than 500 year-round events.
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