The Digital Technology Career Cluster focuses on developing digital systems for communication and data storage using critical technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and cybersecurity. This Cluster builds skills necessary for all careers to navigate and lead in the constantly evolving tech landscape and drives innovation across all industries to tackle complex challenges and opportunities in communities and economies.
This Career Cluster is also a Cross-Cutting Cluster as the skills gained through this Career Clusters area are applicable across all Career Clusters. Practitioners are encouraged to combine content from this Cluster across other CTE programs.
Careers combining the power of data analysis, machine learning, and artificial intelligence (AI), including key processes such as data modeling and natural language processing. Professionals in this field apply critical thinking to work on innovative solutions to interpret vast amounts of information, automate decisionmaking processes, develop intelligent algorithms that improve with experience, and enhance communication between humans and machines. AI requires attention to ethical standards and is poised to revolutionize all industries by enhancing efficiency, personalizing experiences, and driving innovation.
Example Programs of Study
Applied Data Science & Analytics
Careers focused on providing setup, assistance, and problem-solving solutions for software, hardware, and other technology-related issues to ensure smooth and efficient operation of communication and data systems for individuals and organizations. This field is essential in maintaining, supporting, and optimizing technological infrastructure, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum efficiency.
Example Programs of Study
Information Support & Services
Careers focused on establishing and managing communication networks and protecting them against cyber threats. This Sub-Cluster includes network setup, administration, and maintenance and the implementation of security measures to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.
Example Programs of Study
Computer Networking
Cybersecurity
IT Systems
Careers involved in the development and maintenance of software solutions, built on computer science and encompassing programming, application development, and front-end and back-end software development. This Sub-Cluster also includes developing emerging technologies such as augmented and virtual reality, the Internet of Things, distributed ledger technologies, and quantum computing. It involves creating the underlying code and systems that power applications, designing user interfaces for optimal user experience, and building server-side technologies that process data behind the scenes.
Example Programs of Study
App Design
Computer Simulation
Game Development
Programming
Careers related to the development, operation, and use of unmanned vehicles, such as unmanned aerial vehicles, drones, and autonomous ground vehicles, across various sectors. Applications include aerial surveying, precision farming, search and rescue, delivery services, resource management, hazardous environment remediation, and infrastructure inspection. Professionals in this field engage in design, programming, data analysis, and operational management.
Example Programs of Study
Drone Technology
Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Careers focused on creating and managing websites and web applications, including front-end and back-end development and maintenance, as well as overseeing cloud services and infrastructure. This field merges software skills with user interface/user experience and cloud management expertise, ensuring website functionality, security, and cloud efficiency.
Description:
CTE Career Pathway Type/Cluster Title (IAC): Arts, A/V Tech. & Comm. (10.03)
This course creates the annual school yearbook. Students will review, edit, and select the best photographs to be used. Students will be responsible for coverage of all sports and event pictures that occur during the school year. Students will learn Josten’s Yearbook Ave Program and have multiple projects and assignments related to the yearbook. A time commitment outside the normal school day will be required.
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY
2110
1.0 Credit
Connecting & Supporting Success
9th Grade
10th Grade
11th Grade
12th Grade
Department:
Business Education
Sub-Cluster:
Web & Cloud
Prerequisite:
NONE
Description:
CTE Career Pathway Type/Cluster Title (IAC): Arts, A/V Tech. & Comm. (10.03)
In digital photography students begin by learning general photographic concepts. Then composition skills are added to photographs and image-editing techniques are practiced. Students learn how to use layers, crop images, color and lighting concepts, hue and saturation, and exposures and special effects with Adobe Photoshop. Required Materials: Digital Camera brought to class daily plus a $10.00 fee due for the SD card needed for this class.
MARKETING/GRAPHIC DESIGN
3891 & 3892
1.0 Credit
Connecting & Supporting Success
10th Grade
11th Grade
12th Grade
Department:
Business Education
Sub-Cluster:
Web & Cloud
Prerequisite:
INTRO TO BUSINESS
Description:
CTE Career Pathway Type/Cluster Title (IAC): Arts, A/V Tech. & Comm. (10.03)
This comprehensive course focuses on a wide range of factors that influence the flow of goods and services from the producer to the consumer. With that students will learn the principles of great design and typography while using design software to create digital drawings, logos, advertisements, magazine layouts, and more. This will bring to light the skills needed to market a product to be successful.
Information Technology
Occupations with the most projected openings
Occupation
Annual Job Openings
Salary
Required Education
Entry-Level
Experienced
Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
84
$57,468
$98,786
Bachelor's degree
Computer Systems Analysts
35
$53,346
$111,058
Bachelor's degree
Computer User Support Specialists
32
$35,143
$57,439
Some college, no degree
Web Developers and Digital Interface Designers
25
$31,506
$67,219
Bachelor's degree
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
23
$50,676
$82,647
Bachelor's degree
Database Administrators and Architects
15
$56,506
$106,329
Bachelor's degree
Computer Network Support Specialists
13
$50,802
$80,811
Associate's degree
Computer Programmers
9
$56,902
$92,827
Bachelor's degree
Computer Occupations, All Other
8
$43,250
$88,956
Bachelor's degree
Computer Network Architects
6
$68,432
$106,817
Bachelor's degree
Occupations with the highest projected salaries
Occupation
Annual Job Openings
Salary
Required Education
Entry-Level
Experienced
Computer Systems Analysts
35
$53,346
$111,058
Bachelor's degree
Computer Network Architects
6
$68,432
$106,817
Bachelor's degree
Database Administrators and Architects
15
$56,506
$106,329
Bachelor's degree
Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
