Career Planning at Summit Trail
Every student deserves a clear path from high school to what’s next. Our Career Planning program helps students explore strengths and interests, understand graduation requirements, and map realistic steps toward post-secondary, trades, employment, or gap-year options.
Led by Liza Thomsen, our team provides one-to-one guidance, curated resources, and classroom-ready activities that make planning practical and motivating. We connect students with virtual career fairs, dual-credit and RAP opportunities, scholarships, and local employer spotlights—so decisions are based on real information, not guesswork.
What students (and families) can expect:
- Personalized pathway planning (academic courses, CTS, work experience, RAP/dual credit)
- Post-secondary and apprenticeship navigation (requirements, timelines, funding)
- Resume, cover letter, and interview prep with feedback
- Scholarship and bursary guidance with deadline tracking
- Career exploration tools (interest surveys, labour-market snapshots)
Get started:
Have your student book a planning appointment or explore our resources below.
Contact: Liza Thomsen, Career Planning — [lthomsen@rockyview.ab.ca] |
Work Experience
Work Experience at Summit Trail
Work Experience allows high school students to earn credits while gaining valuable on-the-job learning. It’s an excellent way to build employability skills, explore career interests, and connect classroom learning to the real world.
How It Works
- Eligibility: Students must be at least 15 years old and enrolled in high school.
- Credits: Students can earn 1 credit for every 25 hours of work, up to 15 credits (in 3-, 4-, 5-, and 6-level courses).
- Hours: Can be completed during the school year, evenings, weekends, or summer.
- Supervision: A teacher-coordinator (in this case, Liza Thomsen) works with employers to ensure meaningful and safe placements.
- Evaluation: Credit is based on employer evaluations, completion of required documentation, and student reflection assignments.
Benefits for Students
- Gain hands-on experience in a career area of interest.
- Develop essential workplace skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
- Build a professional network and references for future employment or post-secondary applications.
- Test out career paths before committing to college, university, or trades training.
Getting Started
- Contact Liza Thomsen to discuss placement ideas and receive the registration package.
- Secure a placement with an approved employer.
- Complete the required orientation and safety paperwork.
- Must have HSC3000 1 Credit Safety Course before you start
- Track hours and complete assignments while working.
- Earn credits and celebrate your progress toward graduation.
Dual Credit at RVS
The Dual Credit program gives high school students the chance to earn both high school and post-secondary credits at the same time. Through partnerships with Alberta post-secondary institutions, Rocky View Schools (RVS) students can explore career pathways, experience college- or university-level learning, and get a head start on their future.
Why Choose Dual Credit?
- Two-for-one credits – courses count toward your Alberta High School Diploma and a post-secondary program.
- Save time and money – reduce your future course load and tuition.
- Explore career pathways – from trades and technology to health care, business, and more.
- Smooth transition – build confidence with post-secondary expectations while still supported by your high school.
How It Works
- Students apply through their school and, if accepted, enroll in a partner post-secondary course.
- Courses may be offered online, in person, or blended, depending on the program.
- RVS provides guidance and support to help students balance their workload and succeed.
Get Started
Talk to your school’s Career Planning Coordinator (for Summit Trail, contact Liza Thomsen) to learn about available courses, application deadlines, and admission requirements. Spaces are limited, so students are encouraged to apply early.