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Marketing Operations

Learn Business by Running a Business

Marketing Operations is a two-year Career and Technical Education (CTE) program that provides students with hands-on experience in marketing, retail operations, customer service, business management, and entrepreneurship through the operation of a school-based enterprise.

Students learn by actively participating in the day-to-day operation of the school's student store and business activities. Through real-world projects and workplace experiences, students develop the skills needed for careers in business, marketing, retail management, sales, and entrepreneurship.

This program is designed to prepare students for college, technical training, employment, military service, and future business ownership opportunities.

Program Structure

Marketing Operations I (First Year)

First-year students focus on developing foundational business and workplace skills. Students learn:

  • Customer service and sales techniques
  • Marketing principles
  • Retail operations
  • Cash handling and financial accountability
  • Product merchandising
  • Inventory management
  • Professional communication
  • Workplace readiness and employability skills

Students work alongside second-year students and gain experience by participating in daily business operations while learning industry standards and expectations.

Marketing Operations II (Second Year)

Second-year students take on advanced responsibilities and leadership roles within the school-based enterprise. Students focus on:

  • Business leadership and management
  • Marketing campaign development
  • Financial analysis and reporting
  • Inventory control and purchasing
  • Staff training and supervision
  • Strategic planning
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Business problem solving

Second-year students serve as team leaders and mentors, helping train first-year students while overseeing specific areas of business operations.

Learning Through Teamwork

Marketing Operations I and II are taught during the same class period, creating a workplace environment where students collaborate as members of a business team.

Students are organized into departments that mirror real-world business operations, including:

  • Leadership and Management
  • Marketing and Promotions
  • Finance and Accounting
  • Production and Inventory
  • Customer Service and Sales

First-year students learn workplace expectations and business fundamentals while second-year students develop leadership skills by managing projects, mentoring team members, and helping oversee daily operations.

This structure allows students to experience both employee and leadership roles throughout the two-year program.

School-Based Enterprise Experience

Students gain valuable experience by participating in the operation of a school-based enterprise where they:

  • Serve customers
  • Manage inventory
  • Analyze sales data
  • Develop marketing campaigns
  • Create promotional materials
  • Track revenue and expenses
  • Maintain financial records
  • Work as part of a professional team

These authentic business experiences help students apply classroom concepts in a real-world setting.

Industry Recognized Credentials

Students have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized credentials, including:

  • CareerSafe Employability Skills Certification
  • YouScience Career Readiness Credentials
  • Additional business and workplace readiness certifications as available

These credentials demonstrate workplace readiness and help students prepare for future employment opportunities.

Career Pathway and Graduation Requirements

Marketing Operations I and Marketing Operations II form a state-approved Career and Technical Education Program of Study. Students who successfully complete the two-course sequence may use the program as part of a Washington State CTE Graduation Pathway.

By completing the pathway, students gain valuable career skills, explore business-related careers, and demonstrate readiness for post-secondary education, technical training, military service, or employment.

Career Opportunities

Students completing the Marketing Operations pathway gain experience relevant to careers such as:

  • Marketing Specialist
  • Retail Manager
  • Business Owner
  • Sales Representative
  • Customer Service Manager
  • Entrepreneur
  • Operations Manager
  • Inventory Specialist
  • Advertising and Promotions Coordinator
  • Business Administration Professional

The leadership, communication, financial, and problem-solving skills developed through this program are valuable in virtually every career field.