Industry Certifications
Hamilton High School offers students opportunities to gain real-world experience and earn certifications that are recognized by employers and industries throughout Michigan and beyond. Through hands-on learning, partnerships with local businesses and training organizations, and career-focused instruction, students can begin preparing for future careers while still in high school.
These programs allow students to:
- Build practical, job-ready skills
- Explore career interests
- Gain confidence through hands-on learning
- Prepare for apprenticeships, technical training, college, or employment
- Earn certifications that strengthen resumes and career opportunities
Hamilton Community Schools believes students learn best when they can connect classroom learning to real-world experiences and future goals.
Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Program
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Certification
Students at Hamilton High School have the opportunity to earn a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) certification through a four-week training program in partnership with FCG Truck Driving School in Byron Center. This hands-on program provides students with the knowledge and real-world driving experience needed to safely operate commercial vehicles and prepare for the Michigan CDL licensing exam.
During training, students develop important industry skills including:
- Vehicle inspections
- Safety procedures
- Road regulations
- Backing and maneuvering
- Behind-the-wheel driving experience
- Commercial vehicle operation
The CDL program gives students valuable exposure to careers in transportation, logistics, construction, landscaping, agriculture, equipment operation, and other industries that require CDL certification. Students gain practical experience while building career-ready skills that can lead directly to employment opportunities after graduation.
Program Requirements
Students interested in participating in the CDL program must:
- Be 18 years old by April 10 (May 8) of their senior year
- Have two or fewer failed high school courses
- Maintain a quality attendance record
- Remain in good standing at Hamilton High School
- Not be enrolled in CTE courses during senior year
- Have ZERO substance abuse violations in grades 9–12 (including vaping)
- Pass a required drug test
- Pass an MDOT physical examination
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Hamilton High School students interested in healthcare careers have the opportunity to pursue Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification through a program that combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience. This program helps students develop foundational healthcare skills while exploring career opportunities in the medical field.
During the third trimester of their senior year, students complete an online CNA course as part of their high school schedule. Coursework focuses on essential healthcare knowledge and patient care skills including:
- Patient care
- Safety procedures
- Infection control
- Basic medical skills
- Healthcare workplace expectations
Following graduation, students participate in a one-week in-person clinical training experience where they apply their learning while working directly with patients in a healthcare setting under professional supervision.
After completing clinical training, students participate in:
- A one-day certification review session
- State certification testing to earn their CNA credential
The CNA program provides students with valuable healthcare experience while preparing them for future opportunities in nursing, allied health, patient care, and other medical career pathways.
Program Requirements
Students interested in participating in the CNA program must:
- Be a senior student who is at least 17 years old by the start of Trimester 3
- Complete the FAFSA by November 25 of senior year
- Complete required Center for Medical Training paperwork
- Maintain a quality attendance record
- Remain in good standing at Hamilton High School
Where Can These Certifications Lead?
Transportation & Logistics
- Commercial Truck Driver
- Equipment Operator
- Logistics Coordinator
- Fleet Operations
Skilled Trades
- HVAC Technician
- Building Maintenance
- Commercial HVAC
- Refrigeration Technician
Healthcare
- Certified Nursing Assistant
- Patient Care Technician
- Nursing Pathways
- Allied Health Careers
Have questions about Stand Alone Certifications and programming at Hamilton High School? Contact your high school counselor or Director of Career, College & Innovative Programming, Mr. Mat Rehkopf.
