Vista CA— North County Trade Tech High— a STEM-focused, tuition-free public charter high school— recently celebrated its 10th anniversary and officially cut the ribbon on its expanded campus on North Melrose Drive in Vista.
The expanded campus will allow Trade Tech High to serve more students than ever before. The big, new campus has 14 classrooms for a total of 36,000 square feet, allowing Trade Tech High to add one more class per grade level for a total of 80 additional students. Trade Tech High is also adding a Tech Prep Class covering hydraulics, pneumatics, robotics, electronics training and more.
“Even though our campus has expanded significantly, we still offer small classes that are hands-on and relevant to today’s professional business practices,” said Philip Lutgen, principal of Trade Tech High. “Our small classes allow us to really get to know each student and provide individualized support to help them successfully transition to university or trade professions after graduating from Trade Tech High.”
Trade Tech High provides another resource for students in North County to achieve academic excellence and pursue their passions. Trade Tech High’s curriculum emphasizes the STEM-related fields of electrical, plumbing, HVAC, carpentry, engineering, architecture, machining and manufacturing.

“We shape tomorrow’s STEM leaders through hands-on learning,” said Lutgen. “Our motto is Dream It. Engineer It. Build It.”
Trade Tech High offers open enrollment year-round to high school students from all over the state who seek a personalized alternative to a large public high school. To schedule a tour of the new campus call 760-598-0782 or visit www.tradetechhigh.org.