Mission Statement:

The mission of the Home Economics Careers and Technology Unit is to provide high quality leadership and assistance to California middle and high schools in order to improve student performance and to prepare students to be positive, productive members of families, the work force, and the global community.

The reality of California's competitive job market is that employees must have the education and training employers require. Home Economics Related Occupations (HERO) programs teach students solid employment skills to get - and succeed in - jobs in some of the state's fastest growing industries.

Specialized training in "career pathways" allows students to explore and pursue careers options in eight different areas.

The depth and variety of the program's curriculum allows students to then secure entry-level jobs immediately after graduation, pursue advanced training or higher education for technical and professional positions, or "transfer" skills to a variety of careers. Many home economics careers and technology graduates apply their education and knowledge as they move up the career ladder to become managers, employers, and entrepreneurs.

The real strength of California's home economics careers and technology programs is that they not only provide students with the background to get jobs, they also teach students how to be good employees: employees who understand how their industries works; employees who appreciate the relationship between themselves and their employers; employees who successfully balance their home and work lives.

Home economics careers and technology students enhance their educational experiences and career preparation through participation in FHA - HERO, the career- technical organization for home economics careers and technology students. Through participation in FHA-HERO Competitive Recognition Events and community service activities, members develop citizenship and leadership skills.