Helping Katy ISD students succeed beyond high school

KATY, TX – Katy ISD’s Miller Career & Technology Center (MCTC) opened its doors to students and families for a successful Preview Night, showcasing its wide array of career and technical education (CTE) programs.

The event gave an inside look at how these programs can prepare students for success in college, technical schools, and the workforce.

“Preview nights have been well-attended because Miller offers something for nearly every student interest,” said Kelley Kirila, Principal of MCTC.

Programs Offered at MCTC

MCTC provides students with a diverse range of advanced CTE courses, including:

• Architectural Design

• Automotive Technology

• Cisco Network Engineering

• Clinical Rotations

• Computer Technician

• Construction Trades

• Cosmetology

• Culinary Arts

• Cyber Security

• Dental Assisting

• Digital Audio

• Education & Training

• Emergency Medical Technician

• Film

• Law Enforcement

• Legal Studies

• Manufacturing Engineering

• Pharmacy Tech

• Practicum in STEM

• Veterinary Medicine

“Thanks to the guidance of our experienced teachers and the advanced curriculum offered in our programs, our graduates leave high school more career-ready than their peers and are well-prepared to pursue success in college, technical school, or the workplace,” said Kelley Kirila, Principal of MCTC.

Highlights from the Night

Students and families toured classrooms where classroom tours were conducted, including Culinary Arts, Construction Trades, and Automotive Technology.

David Williams, a prospective MCTC student, shared his enthusiasm for exploring the program. “I’ve never been to Miller before, but I’ve heard it’s really interesting and has some really cool classes. I wanted to come check it out and learn more about the opportunities they offer.”

Current MCTC students shared their experiences, showcasing how the programs prepare them for future careers.

“Construction is allowing me to further enjoy my passion for architecture,” said Andrea Arevalo, a current MCTC student.

Andrea Arevalo shared that the MCTC program has helped her solidify her desire to pursue a career in architecture. “I enjoy [MCTC’s] program [because] I can do my own things with electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and I can actually understand the purpose behind everything that is like around me.

Parents expressed excitement about the variety of programs available, saying it inspired their children to explore new opportunities.

How CTE Benefits Students

Katy ISD’s programs aim to equip juniors and seniors with advanced skills in fields like healthcare, technology, construction, and engineering.

Andrea Arevalo shares advice with fellow Katy ISD students: “try whatever you’re interested in doing, whether that be architecture, construction, or medical [fields].”

By graduation, the goal is for students to be ready for higher education and also career-ready with certifications and hands-on experience.

Other districts like Pasadena ISD also offer innovative approaches to student success with programs like Early College, enabling students to graduate with both a high school diploma and college credits.

As Andrea Arevalo, a current MCTC student, advises, “do it now because you have the resources to take any course. The district provides so many opportunities—take advantage of them.”