Disclaimer: We sometimes use affiliate links in our content. For more information, visit our Disclaimer Page.
In 2025, the Cherry Creek Innovation Campus (CCIC) stands as a beacon of innovative education, redefining career and technical training for high school students in Centennial, Colorado. At a time when industries are rapidly evolving, CCIC provides students with a head start into the workforce through immersive, hands-on programs designed to meet tomorrow's job demands. With a significant expansion underway, this career-focused campus is set to double its capacity and introduce nine new career pathways, reflecting broad community and industry support.
Key Takeaways
- Expansion & Growth: By 2026, CCIC will serve approximately 3,200 students, up from 1,800, thanks to a $100 million expansion plan.
- Diverse Pathways: The campus is adding new fields like aerospace engineering, creative industries, and advanced electronics.
- Real-World Impact: Strong ties with local businesses facilitate practical internships and apprenticeships.
- Community Commitment: The community-backed $950 million bond in 2024 highlights a robust investment in education.
Understanding CCIC's Evolution
The Cherry Creek Innovation Campus is more than just a school—it's a launchpad for future careers. Initially offering seven career pathways, CCIC is expanding to provide programs in aerospace engineering, HVAC, and veterinary medicine, among others (read more). The expansion speaks volumes about the growing demand for skilled professionals in high-demand areas.
Innovative Learning Environment
The 117,000-square-foot facility boasts industry-standard labs and collaboration zones designed with input from business partners, simulating real-world work environments that prepare students beyond traditional academic lessons. The strategic location near the Denver Broncos training facility positions CCIC at a nexus of opportunity (details on campus design).
Pathways to Success
CCIC's programs are tailored to match current workforce trends and student interests. This includes advancements in technology and creative industries, empowering students with skills relevant as of 2025. This curriculum flexibility ensures students are not only career-ready but also adaptable to future industry shifts.
Community and Economic Impacts
With a strong community backing evidenced by a voter-approved $950 million bond, CCIC is a testament to public confidence in integrated technical education as a pivotal economic driver. By aligning education programs with industry needs, the campus helps fill critical local labor gaps, ensuring a thriving future workforce (explore bond details).
What new opportunities does the expansion offer?
The campus now includes pathways in rapidly growing fields such as EMT and welding, opening doors to careers in essential services.
How are students prepared for the workforce?
Through collaborations that offer real-world internships and apprenticeships, CCIC students gain practical experience coupled with formal education, enhancing their employability.
Future Outlook
As CCIC continues to evolve, the focus remains on preparing students for an unpredictable future job market, emphasizing the importance of agility and ongoing learning. The campus aims to deepen collaborations with local businesses, leveraging industry insights to continuously refine its educational offerings.
By integrating hands-on learning with industry insight, Cherry Creek Innovation Campus not only prepares students but transforms them into the workforce-ready professionals of tomorrow, setting a new precedent for secondary education.
