Career Pathways
Our Career Pathways help you explore career fields related to your interests. These educational paths can lead you to a rewarding career. Need help choosing a career? Take this quiz. It's time to transform your future!
Succeed in the workplace and attain your educational goals!
Bates offers multiple programs to support students who need to complete high school or prepare for college or a career. Whether you need to complete your high school diploma, or improve your reading, writing or math skills, our programs are designed to help you succeed in the workplace or attain your educational goals.
Learn MoreBe a part of the next generation of this high-demand career field
The Advanced Manufacturing career pathway prepares you for a career in manufacturing and aerospace industries. You’ll learn in clean, bright indoor labs that mirror the workplace using hands-on techniques to develop technical skills in traditional precision tooling and machining, as well as computer numeric control (CNC) machines.
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Land a career behind the scenes or in a business setting
In the Business and Communication career pathway, you’ll prepare for a career in a professional business setting or a dynamic and fast-paced multimedia field. Whether you want to open your own business, pursue work in a traditional personal services or business setting, or you’re a creative technology-savvy person who seeks a career in video production, graphic design, photography or web media, this pathway is perfect for you.
Learn more about student achievement
Learn MoreSauté and sizzle your way to a delicious career in cuisine
The Hospitality career pathway connects you with South Sound’s only American Culinary Federation Accredited Culinary Arts degree and certificate program. If you have an epicurean passion for baking and cooking, and have dreamed of working in the culinary industry, this program is for you. Earn an Associate of Applied Science degree or a certificate while receiving a hands-on education from award-winning instructors.
Programs
Make a difference in your community: Pursue a career in education or public safety
The Education and Public Safety career pathway focuses on early childhood education and offers comprehensive training for current and future firefighters, as well as leadership development in Public Safety Administration.
The Early Childhood Education program combines theory with hands-on lab experience, teaching you how to create engaging learning environments and apply developmentally appropriate curriculum. This program prepares you for a rewarding career in educating young children. Through the college’s continuing education department, you can earn a Career and Technical Education certificate to teach at the secondary level, grades 7-12.
The Fire Service program and other first responder-related courses provide you with real-world training opportunities. You’ll gain the skills and knowledge needed to pursue careers as firefighters or in related professions that require specialized certifications.
New! The Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree in Public Safety Administration is the only one of its kind in Washington state, and builds on the solid foundations of our Fire Science and Cybersecurity programs. This degree equips you with advanced skills for managing disaster recovery, emergency response, and community health, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the dynamic field of public safety.
Learn MoreTake the first step toward pursuing a fulfilling career of caring for others
The Health Sciences career pathway prepares you for a rewarding career in various professions, in both direct and indirect patient care. Whether you seek a career as a licensed practical nurse, dental assistant, occupational therapy assistant, or dental lab tech, or are interested in fixing high-tech equipment in a medical facility, Bates Technical College has a program for you. The programs combine technical and theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience and are taught by experienced faculty dedicated to your success.
Learn MoreGet your career in gear in high-tech and analytical fields
The STEM career pathway prepares students to enter this exciting, fast-paced field with the knowledge, skills and industry certifications necessary to succeed and advance. Program choices are varied and focus on information technology, robotics and mechatronics, electronics and engineering fields. Each program teaches you the necessary skills and industry-relevant tools to pursue entry-level positions in these dynamic fields.
Programs
- Automation and Mechatronics
- Cloud Computing and Networking Technology
- Computer Information Security and IT Project Management Bachelor of Applied Science
- Cybersecurity
- Dental Lab Technician
- Electrical Engineering Technology
- Electronic Equipment Service Technician
- Information Technology Specialist
- Mechanical Engineering Technology
- Software Development
Hands-on learning for skilled trades and fast-moving careers
The Transportation and Trades career pathway prepares those who enjoy working with their hands, repairing various vehicles parts, and take pride in their craft. Many programs in this pathway teach you how to turn raw materials into finished products and how to safely operate and maintain equipment. If you’re interested in transportation programs that focus on earning your Class A CDL, repairing engines, or building and fixing motorcycle and marine equipment, these programs are the first step to gaining employment in these fields. Depending on the program you choose, you can earn industry certificates, licensures and apprenticeship hours
Learn MorePrograms
- Architectural Woodworking/Cabinet Making Technology
- Auto Body Rebuilding and Refinishing
- Automotive Technology
- Carpentry
- Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology
- Electrical Construction
- Facilities Maintenance Engineer
- Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technician
- Motorcycle and Marine Technology
- Sheet Metal Technology
- Welding
Refresh your skills or explore a new interest!
Our continuing education opportunities will help you retool for what’s next in life. Whether your goal is to continue your professional development or learn a new skill, our continuing education courses are current and relevant.
Learn MoreLearn a new trade or skill
Looking for paid, on-the-job learning?
Apprenticeships are a great option for people who like to work with their hands and are ready to go to work.
Learn MoreStart Your Path to College and Career
Bates Tech offers several programs that help you earn your high school diploma, including High School+, Technical High School and Running Start.
Learn MoreEnhance your child care skills and create connections with other parents and caregivers!
Our robust Child Studies department educates parents, child care employees and caregivers on early childhood topics that enhances your skills. We offer parenting seminars and classes for parents, a child care advisory program, a resource center, State Training and Registry System (STARS) courses, and more.
Learn MoreNewsroom
- July 20, 2026
From classmates to firefighters: Friends make Bates Technical College history together
Read More - July 20, 2026
Bates Technical College hosts free dental and denture clinic for South Sound community
Read More -
TRA Medical Imaging Foundation awards Bates Technical College MRI students scholarships
March 23, 2026KBTC Public Television’s Tom Layson receives James Andersen Award
March 03, 2026
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