Missouri FCCLA proudly connects classroom learning to real-world careers by supporting Career and Technical Education (CTE) through a focus on six high-demand Career Clusters: Arts and Design, Hospitality and Tourism, Financial Services, Education and Training, Human Services, and Public Service.
FCCLA is fully integrated into Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) education as an intracurricular experience. This means Missouri students are not just learning about careers—they’re engaging in them through hands-on projects, work-based learning, and leadership development rooted in their everyday coursework.
Through Missouri state and national FCCLA programs and competitive events, students enhance their academic journey while gaining practical knowledge and technical skills. These experiences provide access to business and industry connections, leadership opportunities, and industry-recognized certifications that elevate students’ readiness for both college and careers.
FCCLA members explore real career options by developing projects, participating in statewide and national events, and earning recognition through scholarships and awards. Their participation aligns with Missouri’s CTE goals and ensures students are building a strong foundation across FCCLA’s six Career Clusters.
Building Career-Ready Missouri Leaders
FCCLA equips students with essential skills that transfer across every career field, helping Missouri youth thrive in any path they choose. These skills—often referred to as Career Ready Practices—are embedded in every FCCLA experience:
- Applied Academic Skills – communication, math, science, and literacy
- Critical Thinking and Resource Management – managing time, money, and materials
- Information Use – gathering, analyzing, and applying knowledge
- Communication Skills – speaking, writing, and digital fluency
- Interpersonal Skills – leadership, collaboration, and negotiation
- Personal Qualities – professionalism, integrity, and initiative
- Systems Thinking – teamwork, decision-making, and project planning
- Technology Use – leveraging tools and industry-specific software
Whether designing a business pitch, planning a community event, or leading a student training, Missouri FCCLA members are applying these skills every day.
FCCLA prepares Missouri students to lead now and succeed later—ensuring that when our members graduate, they’re not only career-ready, they’re Missouri-ready.
Arts and Design
The Arts and Design Career Cluster involves designing, producing, exhibiting, performing, writing, and publishing multimedia content, including visual arts, performing arts, design, journalism, and entertainment services. Professionals in this cluster use creativity and technical skills to bring ideas to life and communicate across mediums.
Possible Careers in Arts and Design
- Graphic designer
- Fashion designer
- Interior designer
- Art director
- Illustrator
- Photographer
- Animator or multimedia artist
- Costume or set designer
- Floral designer
- Commercial or fine artist
- Film or video editor
- Advertising or marketing specialist
- Web designer
- Exhibit designer
Hospitality and Tourism
The Hospitality and Tourism Career Cluster focuses on the management, marketing, and operations of restaurants, lodging, attractions, recreation events, and travel-related services. Professionals in this field create memorable experiences for guests through customer service, planning, and innovation.
Possible Careers in Hospitality and Tourism
- Hotel or resort manager
- Event planner or coordinator
- Travel agent or tour guide
- Executive chef
- Restaurant manager
- Food and beverage director
- Front desk supervisor or concierge
- Hospitality marketing specialist
- Cruise line staff or director
- Theme park operations manager
- Catering manager
- Meeting and convention planner
- Lodging facilities inspector
- Recreation director
- Tourism development specialist
Financial Services
The Financial Services Career Cluster focuses on planning, services for financial and investment planning, banking, insurance, and business financial management. Professionals in this field help individuals, businesses, and organizations make informed financial decisions, manage assets, and protect economic stability.
Possible Careers in Financial Services
- Financial analyst
- Accountant or auditor
- Loan officer
- Budget analyst
- Banker or credit union specialist
- Insurance agent or underwriter
- Investment advisor or wealth manager
- Tax preparer
- Financial planner
- Claims adjuster
- Risk manager
- Credit analyst
- Actuary
- Payroll specialist
- Compliance officer
Education and Training
The Education and Training Career Cluster involves planning, managing, and providing education and training services, as well as related learning support. Professionals in this field are dedicated to helping others learn and grow—whether in schools, businesses, or community organizations.
Possible Careers in Education and Training
- Superintendent, principal, or other school administrator
- Teacher or instructor
- Preschool or kindergarten teacher
- Curriculum developer or instructional coordinator
- Career and technical education (CTE) teacher
- Child care worker or early childhood educator
- Special education teacher
- Parent educator
- Coach or athletic trainer
- School counselor or academic advisor
- Librarian or media specialist
- Education policy analyst
- Corporate trainer or professional development specialist
- Sign language interpreter
Human Services
The Human Services Career Cluster focuses on careers that improve the well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Professionals in this field provide support services through counseling, mental health care, family and community services, personal care, and consumer advocacy.
Possible Careers in Human Services
- Social worker
- Mental health counselor
- Family therapist
- Substance abuse counselor
- Case manager
- Child and youth care worker
- Rehabilitation specialist
- Consumer advocate
- Nonprofit program coordinator
- Residential care facility worker
- Career or life coach
- Crisis intervention specialist
- Domestic violence advocate
- Community outreach worker
Public Service
The Public Service Career Cluster involves planning and providing government, nonprofit, and community-based services that support public safety, health, and welfare. Professionals in this field work to serve others and improve quality of life at the local, state, national, or global level.
Possible Careers in Public Service
- Emergency management director
- Law enforcement officer
- Firefighter or fire inspector
- Paramedic or EMT
- Public health educator
- City or county government official
- Legislative aide or public policy analyst
- Environmental health specialist
- Military service member or officer
- Court clerk or bailiff
- Correctional officer
- Public administrator
- Foreign service officer
- Community service coordinator
- Nonprofit executive or program director
