Emmett O'Brien Technical High School

Our Students Succeed Here

At Emmett O’Brien Technical High School, students get the chance to discover what they’re good at, build practical skills, and prepare for life after high school. Through a combination of academics and hands-on career and technical education, students graduate with a diploma and the knowledge, experience, and confidence to pursue college, an apprenticeship, military service, or a career.

Students rotate between academic and trade instruction on an approximately two-week cycle. This gives them dedicated time to focus on their academic courses while also gaining hands-on experience in their chosen trade. Students learn in industry-standard shops and labs where they can put their skills into practice and prepare for the expectations of the workplace.

During their freshman year, students explore our career and technical education programs before choosing a trade that fits their interests and goals. As they progress through high school, students develop technical skills, learn workplace expectations, and have opportunities to earn industry-recognized credentials.

Emmett O’Brien also provides a strong academic foundation, with courses that prepare students for college and other options after graduation. Beginning in their junior year, eligible students can participate in Work-Based Learning, earning school credit while gaining experience in their trade during the school day.

At Emmett O’Brien Technical High School, students leave with more than a diploma. They leave with a skill, a sense of direction, and the experience to help them take their next step.

Vision & Mission

Our Vision

We envision CTECS as the primary pipeline for Connecticut’s skilled labor workforce.

Our Mission

Through exemplary trade and academic programming, CTECS prepares trade-bound students to meet the skilled workforce needs in Connecticut.

Our Vision of a Graduate

The Vision of a Graduate (VoG) at the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS) embodies our commitment to preparing students for success in Connecticut’s workforce. Developed in collaboration with students, parents, staff, and employers, the VoG ensures that CTECS students are not only job-ready but also equipped to lead, innovate, and adapt in a dynamic world. As educators, we are dedicated to developing these qualities by providing a comprehensive education that empowers our students to achieve their fullest potential and make meaningful contributions to society.

Work-Ready

To be work-ready includes a combination of technical expertise, soft skills, and personal qualities that ensure a graduate can effectively contribute to the workplace from day one.

Respectful

Graduates who embody respectfulness emphasize the importance of treating others with dignity, valuing diversity, and fostering an inclusive and positive environment, both personally and professionally.

Problem Solver

Problem solvers tackle challenges by identifying root causes of issues, brainstorming solutions, implementing effective strategies, and demonstrating adaptability.

Critical Thinker

Critical thinkers approach problems systematically by analyzing, evaluating, and synthesizing information to make well-informed decisions and contribute to innovative solutions.

Effective Communicator

Effective communicators convey ideas, information, and emotions accurately and persuasively, fostering understanding and collaboration.

Skilled Socially

Graduates who are skilled socially are equipped to navigate social environments, build relationships, and contribute positively to their communities and workplaces.

Where Our Students Come From

We attract a diverse student population from across Connecticut because of our extensive Career and Technical Education programs, rigorous academics, opportunities for real-world work experience and the chance to earn college credit. Below are the towns our students frequently come from, but others are encouraged to apply. Learn more about our application process.

About Our School