Northglenn approves P-TECH partnership with Northland High, Front Range and industry partners

The City of Northglenn voted unanimously to approve a cooperative agreement to support the Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) program at Northland High School, aiming to connect local students with college credit, certifications and internships with industry partners.

The program pairs Northland High School, Front Range Community College and industry partners — now including CableLabs and Solid Power — to provide students with college coursework, industry-recognized certificates and early access to internships. "P TECH is an innovative partnership, between a high school, a community college and then industry employers," said Todd Korn, program coordinator at Northland High School. He told the council the program has saved families more than $2 million in tuition and described students who graduate with certificates and credits that make them competitive for internships and further study.

City Director of Economic Development Lisonbee Moding introduced the resolution and explained the city's role. Staff recommended approval and described the agreement as consistent with the city's strategic plan to expand partnerships that prepare local students for technology careers.

Council members questioned how internships and work placements would be structured. Korn said recent internships with Adams 12 are paid and take place in the summer, but the program is flexible and can be tailored to industry and student needs. "If the kid is qualified for the position, it's just give them that opportunity, give them a chance," Korn said, describing the city's potential role as offering students priority interviews and job-shadowing opportunities rather than guaranteed employment.

Council member Roper said the program offers a way to "grow our own" workforce as many public-sector employees approach retirement. Council member Condo asked whether trades were in scope; Korn said the current P-TECH pathway at Northland is focused on computer information systems and career-technical education tied to IT, though he said other P-TECH-style pathways (for trades) could be developed in the district.

Staff noted concrete program data during the presentation: 108 current pathway students, roughly 70% first-generation college students, 38% female overall (50% female among the current freshman cohort) and 47 graduates to date. Industry partners have hosted classroom visits and are planning internships and visits this spring.

The council passed the resolution unanimously. The approval directs the city to enter the cooperative agreement and pursue partnership activities, including internship and mentorship opportunities with Northland students.

The city and district staff said they will continue to coordinate details such as length and timing of internships and how student placements will be matched with departmental needs.

The council photo-op and brief applause followed the vote; staff said implementation details will be worked out in the coming months.