College Exploration is designed to help students at Clallam Bay High School and their families navigate the different pathways available after graduation. Choosing a path depends on your career goals, how much time you want to spend in school, and your budget.

1. Four-Year Universities

Universities offer Bachelor's degrees (usually taking 4 years). This path is best for careers like teaching, engineering, nursing, or business management.

Public vs. Private

• Public Universities: Funded by the state (like UW, WSU, or Western). They are usually larger and offer lower tuition rates for Washington residents.

• Private Universities: Funded by tuition and donations (like Seattle Pacific or Gonzaga). They are usually smaller with more one-on-one time with professors. While their "sticker price" is higher, they often offer large private scholarships that can make them as affordable as public schools.

In-State vs. Out-of-State

• In-State: Staying in Washington keeps your tuition lowest and allows you to use the Washington College Grant.

• Out-of-State: Typically more expensive, but Washington students can use the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE). This program allows you to attend public colleges in neighboring states (like Oregon, Idaho, or Montana) at a significantly reduced rate.

  • Resource: Search WUE Schools

Four-Year Universities Virtual Campus Tours: Public & Private 

The "Big Three" Public Universities (Virtual Tours)

• University of Washington (Seattle): Experience the UW Virtually (Includes 360° views of the Quad and Husky Stadium).

• Washington State University (Pullman): WSU Pullman Virtual Tour (Explore "Cougar Country" and see the residence halls).

• Western Washington University (Bellingham): WWU Virtual Tour (A popular choice for Clallam Bay students due to its size and location).

Private University Options (Virtual Tours)

Private schools often have smaller classes and more specialized support.

• Gonzaga University (Spokane): Gonzaga Virtual Visit

• Seattle University: Seattle U Virtual Tour

• Seattle Pacific University: SPU Virtual Tour

2. Two-Year Community & Technical Colleges

For many on the Peninsula, Peninsula College (PC) is the first step. These schools are affordable and flexible.

• Transfer Path (AA/AS Degree): You spend two years at a community college doing your general classes, then transfer to a university for your final two years to get a Bachelor's degree. This saves thousands of dollars.

• Workforce Path (Technical): You go for two years to learn a specific trade and enter the workforce immediately with an Associate’s degree (like Welding, Cybersecurity, or Nursing).

Two-Year Colleges & Local Options Campus Virtual Tours

For many in Clallam Bay, Peninsula College is the best way to start college while staying close to home or saving money.

• Peninsula College (Port Angeles/Forks): PC Virtual Campus Experience – You can also schedule a "Discover PC" Zoom call with an advisor to see the campus virtually.

• The Evergreen State College (Olympia): Evergreen Virtual Tour – Known for its unique "no grades" narrative evaluation system.

Directory for More Schools: If you want to see others (like Central or Eastern), check out the Gear Up Washington Virtual Tour Directory.

3. Trade Degrees vs. Certificates

If you want to work with your hands or get into a specific field quickly, you have two main options:

• Professional/Technical Degrees (2 Years): You earn an Associate in Applied Science (AAS). It includes your trade training plus some general classes (English/Math). It’s a full college degree.

• Certificates (3 months to 1 year): These are "Fast Track" programs. You take only the classes needed for the job (like a CDL, Phlebotomy, or Carpentry certificate). It is the fastest way to get certified and start working.

4. Scholarships and "Free Money"

You should never pay to apply for a scholarship. Here are the most reliable sources:

• Washington College Grant: This is one of the best programs in the country. If your family makes under a certain amount (e.g., ~$78,500 for a family of 4), your tuition is 100% free at any public college in WA.

  • Link: Check your WA Grant eligibility

• theWashboard.org: This is a "clearinghouse" specifically for Washington students. You create one profile, and it matches you with dozens of local and state scholarships.

  • Link: theWashboard

5. FAFSA & WASFA: The Key to it All

To get any of the money mentioned above, you must fill out a financial aid application. You only need to do one of these:

• FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid): For U.S. Citizens and permanent residents.

  • Link: studentaid

• WASFA (Washington Application for State Financial Aid): For students who are not eligible for federal aid due to immigration status but are WA residents (DACA/Dreamers).

  • Link: wasfa

The "15-Minute Rule": The new FAFSA is much shorter than it used to be. Most families can finish it in under 15 minutes. It opens every year on October 1st for the following school year.

Helpful Links for Families

• Plan Your Path: CareerBridge (Search jobs and see which schools teach them).

• Peninsula College Admissions: pencol

• Financial Aid Calculator: Estimate your aid

For students at Clallam Bay High School, the military pathway is an accessible and locally supported option. Most of the official recruiting offices for our area are based in Port Angeles.

While some recruiters have full-time storefronts, others visit Port Angeles on specific days. Below is the contact information to get started.

Local Recruiting Contacts (Port Angeles Hub)

The primary hub for military and veteran resources in our area is located in downtown Port Angeles.

Army National Guard

• Address: 216 S Francis St, Port Angeles, WA 98362

• Phone: (360) 328-6286

• Why it’s unique: This office is great for students who want to serve part-time while attending college (like Peninsula College) or staying close to home.

U.S. Coast Guard

• Recruiter Phone: (206) 815-6056

• Email: ROPortAngeles@uscg.mil

• Local Presence: While the main recruiting office for the region is in Seattle, they have a dedicated recruiter for the Port Angeles area due to the local Coast Guard Air Station.

Active Duty (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines)

Most active-duty branches operate out of a shared Armed Forces Career Center in the region. Because Clallam Bay is a remote location, it is highly recommended to call first to schedule a meeting in Port Angeles so you don't have to drive to Silverdale or Bremerton.

• Army: (888) 550-ARMY

• Navy: (360) 692-6138 (Silverdale Office - services Port Angeles)

• Air Force: (360) 536-5855 (Silverdale Office - services Port Angeles)

• Marines: (360) 692-6282 (Silverdale Office - services Port Angeles)

Which Branch is Right for You?

Every branch has a different "culture" and job focus. Use these official tools to see where your skills and interests might fit best.

• Today’s Military - Quiz: A great "all-in-one" quiz that helps you see which branch matches your lifestyle and career goals.

• GoArmy Career Match: Even if you aren't looking at the Army, this tool is excellent for seeing how high school interests (like mechanics, coding, or healthcare) translate into military roles.

• Air Force "Aim High" App: The Air Force uses an app-based system to help students explore high-tech careers.

• Marine Corps - Find Your Purpose: A tool to find a local "Officer Selection Officer" or recruiter to discuss the physical and leadership demands of the Corps.

Important Reminder for the Graduation Pathway

If you are using the military as your Graduation Pathway, remember that you only need a score of 31 on the ASVAB.

• You are not required to enlist to use the score for graduation.

• The ASVAB is free and often offered at the school or the Port Angeles office.

Comparison of Military Branches

For students at Clallam Bay High School looking for a career path that doesn't involve traditional four-year college debt, Registered Apprenticeships are an incredible option. In Washington state, these programs are often called the "other four-year degree" because they offer high-level training and high-paying careers.

What is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a "job with a future." It combines on-the-job training (working a full-time job under a mentor) with classroom instruction (learning the theory behind the work).

• Earn While You Learn: You are a paid employee from Day 1. As you learn more skills and hit certain milestones (usually every 6–12 months), your paycheck increases automatically.

• Zero Debt: Most apprenticeship sponsors cover the cost of your training and classes. You graduate with a career and a bank account, not a student loan.

• Nationally Recognized: When you finish, you receive a Journey-Level Credential. This is a "passport" that proves your expertise in any state in the U.S.

Why Consider This Path?

Apprenticeships aren't just for construction anymore. In Washington, you can find programs in:

• Traditional Trades: Electrical, plumbing, carpentry, and welding.

• High-Tech & Business: IT, cybersecurity, and project management.

• Healthcare: Medical assistants, pharmacy technicians, and nursing.

• Public Utilities: Local groups like Clallam County PUD #1 offer specialized paths for linemen and technicians right here in our region.

How it Connects to Your High School Plan

If you are aiming for an apprenticeship, you can start preparing right now at Clallam Bay:

1. CTE Graduation Pathway: By taking a sequence of Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes, you not only meet your graduation requirements but also gain "preferred entry" status for many competitive apprenticeship programs.

2. Pre-Apprenticeship Programs: These are short-term training programs (like Core Plus or AJAC) that teach you basic safety and tool skills so you are ready to apply for a full apprenticeship the moment you graduate.

3. Financial Aid: Starting in 2026, the Washington College Grant for Apprenticeship continues to provide financial support to help cover tools, work gear, and any related tuition fees.

Is it Right for You?

Apprenticeship might be a great fit if you:

• Prefer "learning by doing" rather than sitting in a lecture hall.

• Are ready to enter the workforce and start earning a "family-wage" immediately.

• Want a career with clear growth, job security, and excellent benefits (medical, dental, and retirement).

Pro Tip: Many apprenticeships in Washington allow you to earn college credits simultaneously. You can actually complete an Associate’s Degree through a local technical college while finishing your apprenticeship!

Next Steps for Students

• Talk to your counselor about which CTE classes at Clallam Bay align with your interests.

• Visit CareerBridge to search for registered apprenticeship programs in the North Olympic Peninsula area.

For students at Clallam Bay High School, there are several apprenticeship opportunities available right here on the North Olympic Peninsula. Because of our location, many local programs are run through larger regional offices in Port Angeles or are sponsored by local utility and healthcare providers.

Below are the specific registered apprenticeship programs currently available in Clallam County.

Energy & Public Utilities

These programs are perfect for students who want to work outdoors and keep our local communities powered and connected.

• Clallam County PUD #1 (Port Angeles): The PUD offers specific apprenticeship tracks that turn into high-wage careers with excellent benefits.

  • Lineman Apprenticeship: Learning to build and repair power lines.

  • Meter Technician: Specialized electrical work on utility meters.

  • Substation & Equipment Technician: Maintaining the heavy-duty gear that manages the power grid.

  • Tree Trimmer: A specialized 2-year program focused on clearing lines safely.

• How to apply: Visit the Clallam PUD Careers page. They post apprenticeship openings as "Job Opportunities" when they are available.

Building & Electrical Trades

Most trades in our area are managed by regional unions or training centers that have offices in Port Angeles or Silverdale.

• IBEW Local 46 (Electrical): This union covers Clallam County and offers three main programs:

  • Inside Wireman (01): Commercial and industrial electrical work.

  • Residential Wireman (02): Wiring homes and apartments.

  • Limited Energy (06): Low-voltage work like security systems, data, and fire alarms.

  • Local Contact: They maintain a dispatch office in Port Angeles (360-452-7552).

• CITC (Construction Industry Training Council): This is a non-union option that covers "all counties in Washington." They partner with local contractors for training in:

  • Carpentry, HVAC, Plumbing, Heavy Equipment, and Painting.

• How to apply: Visit PSEJATC for electrical programs or CITCWA for other building trades.

Healthcare

Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing sectors for apprenticeships in our region.

• Olympic Medical Center (OMC): OMC offers "earn-while-you-learn" paths for students entering the medical field.

  • Medical Assistant Apprenticeship: Paid on-the-job training combined with online coursework for one year.

  • Pharmacy Technician: Pathways to certification while working.

  • Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): OMC often offers 100% reimbursement for tuition and fees for employees.

• How to apply: Check the Olympic Medical Center Career Pathways page.

Specialized & Pre-Apprenticeship

• Maritime Trades: While less formalized as local apprenticeships, the Northwest School of Wooden Boatbuilding in Port Hadlock (Jefferson County) is a partner for many maritime-related technical paths.

• Core Plus: Ask your counselor if Clallam Bay offers Core Plus curriculum. This is a "pre-apprenticeship" that gives you a massive advantage when applying for maritime, aerospace, or construction programs after graduation.

Tips for Clallam Bay Students

1. Check the Age: Most programs require you to be 18 by the time you start, but you can (and should) apply during the second half of your senior year.

2. Driving is Required: Because Clallam Bay is a bit of a drive from the main job sites or training centers in Port Angeles, a valid driver's license and reliable transportation are usually mandatory for any apprenticeship.

3. Use the ARTS Tool: You can search every registered program in the state by county using the Washington L&I ARTS Search.

For students at Clallam Bay High School who are ready to enter the workforce immediately after graduation, Washington state has created several tools and graduation pathways to ensure you are career-ready. Whether you want to work in the timber industry, healthcare, or hospitality, here is how to make that transition successful.

Connect Your Job to Your Diploma

Starting with the Class of 2026, if your goal is to go straight to work, you can use your employment goals to meet your graduation requirements:

• Performance-Based Pathway: This is a great option for students entering the workforce. You can demonstrate your skills through a "Work-Related Experience" or a "Portfolio" that shows you've mastered state standards in a real-world setting.

• CTE Sequence: If you take two years of classes in a field like Business, Natural Resources, or Health Sciences, you meet your graduation requirement while gaining the specific skills local employers are looking for.

• High School and Beyond Plan: Make sure your plan reflects your "Workforce Entry" goal. This allows your counselor to help you find the right local internships or job-shadowing opportunities.

Free Resources to Help You Get Hired

You don't have to navigate the job market alone. These organizations offer free help with resumes, interview practice, and finding job openings.

• WorkSource Clallam County: Your primary hub for job listings and career coaching.

  • Phone: (360) 457-2103 (Port Angeles) / (360) 683-6197 (Sequim)

  • Website: WorkSourceWA

• Serenity House Youth Services: Offers specialized support for young adults (ages 18–24) with employment goals, including help with transportation and work clothing.

  • Phone: (360) 565-5053

• Career Bridge WA: A "one-stop-shop" to see which jobs are in high demand in Clallam County and what they pay.

  • Website: CareerBridge

Pro-Tips for Clallam Bay Students

1. Get Your Driver’s License: In our part of the Peninsula, having a license and reliable transportation is often the #1 requirement for local jobs.

2. Clean Up Your Digital Footprint: Local employers will look at your social media. Make sure it looks professional before you start handing out resumes.

3. Soft Skills Matter: Being on time, communicating clearly, and having a positive attitude are often more important to local employers than your GPA.

4. Volunteer First: If you don't have work experience, join the United Way "Youth United" program. It helps you earn a "Varsity Letter" in community service, which looks incredible on a first-time resume.

5. The "Local" Advantage: Mention that you live in Clallam Bay or Sekiu. Employers love hiring locals because they know you won't struggle with the commute or get "lost" on the 112.

6. Highlight Your Availability: Many of these jobs are busiest on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. If you are willing to work weekends, you are 10x more likely to get hired.

7. Get a Food Worker Card: In Washington, you must have a "Food Handlers Permit" to work around food. Getting this before you apply shows you are serious.

   • Link: Washington State Food Worker Card ($12)

Next Steps for Students

• Create a Master Resume: Start a document listing every club, sport, and volunteer hour you’ve completed. Canva is a free website that offers many resume templates. Sign up using your personal email address.

• Ask for References: Ask two teachers or community members if they would be willing to be a positive reference for you.