281-874-2131
BLANSON CTE HIGH SCHOOL
3111 West Road
Houston, Texas 77032
blansonhs.aldineisd.org
Just minutes from the intersection of I-45 and the Sam Houston Tollway, Blanson CTE High School sits at the heart of a region undergoing rapid transformation. As North Houston shifts from a traditional office-based economy to a logistics and distribution hub, Blanson is preparing students to meet that moment—with industry-aligned instruction, certifications, and confidence.
Inside the Distribution & Logistics Program at Blanson CTE High School, Right in the Heart of North Houston
Walk into Aldine ISD’s Blanson Career and Technical Education High School and you might hear students tossing around terms like “supply chain visibility,” “inventory management,” or “dual credit certification.” That’s not corporate jargon—it’s just a typical Tuesday in Mr. Bingham’s distribution and logistics lab, located right here in the North Houston District.
Why This Story Matters
This isn’t just a story about a high school program. It’s about a community in motion—a regional shift toward logistics and distribution and the students rising to lead it. Students like Andre Johnson and Raisa Ramirez are proof that workforce development doesn’t begin after graduation—it begins now. We’re shining a light on the talent growing right here within our boundaries and hoping to strengthen the connection between education, industry, and the long-term vitality of our region.
We first connected with Mr. Shawn Bingham, Distribution & Logistics instructor at Blanson, after the Winter 2024 edition of Quadrants landed in his campus mailbox.
Intrigued by the District’s focus on logistics growth and workforce development, he reached out looking for ways to connect his students with real-world opportunities right here in North Houston. What followed was a visit to campus, a deep dive into Blanson’s career programs, and a powerful reminder of why youth engagement matters in the evolving logistics economy.
In the Spring of 2025, District staff went to meet two shining stars from Blanson CTE High School. Meet Andre, Mr. B and Raisa.
“At first, I didn’t know what distribution was,” Andre said. “But Mr. Bingham broke it down and made it exciting.”
“If I want to run a business someday, I need to understand distribution,” Raisa said. “This gives me that foundation.”
What is Blanson CTE High School?
Blanson Career and Technical Education High School is a state-of-the-art Aldine ISD magnet campus that offers students hands-on training in 17 career pathways. Opened in 2018 and named after longtime educator and administrator Dr. Archie L. Blanson, the school is dedicated to preparing students for college, career, and life after high school through a blend of academic rigor, dual credit opportunities, and real-world experience. From welding and health sciences to animation and logistics, Blanson equips students with the certifications, skills, and confidence to lead in high-demand industries—starting before they even graduate. Students here don’t have after-school athletics – but they work in highly specialized labs that prepare them for the workforce.
What's the Distribution & Logistics Program?
Blanson’s Distribution & Logistics program prepares students for careers in one of the fastest-growing industries in Texas and across the country. Through hands-on learning, students explore how goods move from suppliers to consumers—learning the ins and outs of warehousing, inventory control, supply chain operations, and workplace safety. The program combines classroom instruction with practical application, giving students the chance to earn industry certifications, manage real inventory systems, and graduate with the skills needed to step directly into a high-demand field or pursue further education in supply chain management.
Preparing Students for Tomorrow’s Workforce
Blanson offers 17 industry-aligned programs developed in direct response to labor market trends. Programs include:
- Animation
- Audio/Video Production
- Automotive Technology
- Business/Marketing
- CAD/Computer-Aided Design
- Collision Repair
- Construction
- Diesel
- Distribution & Logistics
- Health Services (Patient Care Tech, EMT, Physical Therapy, Dental Assistant)
- Hospitality & Tourism
- HVAC
- Information Engineering Technology
- Instrumentation (Process Control)
- Machining
- Medical Terminology
- Welding
How are students selected, or how do they apply for the CTE program?
According to Wanda Ardoin-Bailey, Coordinator of Campus & Student Initiatives at Blanson CTE High School, during the program planning stage, all 17 programs were developed based on market trends and the success of existing programs within Aldine. This strategic initiative aimed to equip students with practical knowledge aligned with current job market demands, which led to the inclusion of the Distribution and Logistics program. Applications are open to incoming eighth graders district-wide and beyond, with limited ninth-grade seats available. A selection committee evaluates applicants based on academics, attendance, and behavior. Qualified students are entered into a lottery system to ensure equitable access.
“We want every student to have a pathway to opportunity,” said Ardoin-Bailey. “Our job is to prepare them not just for a job—but for a future.”
Prepared With Real-World Readiness
One of the program’s standout projects is “Blamazon”—a full-service, student-run supply room where logistics students manage inventory, fulfill teacher supply orders, and deliver them across campus.
“It’s basically a giant delivery network,” said senior Andre Johnson. “Teachers send requests, and we fulfill them. We’re responsible for counting, tracking, and restocking—all of it.”
The infrastructure for Blamazon was built in-house by students in Blanson’s construction program—a true collaboration across CTE pathways. This year, the program earned a $1,000 grant from the Aldine Education Foundation to help automate the inventory system—a project four years in the making and part of Mr. Bingham’s own graduate capstone.
“We didn’t just fill the shelves—we built them,” Andre said. “That collaboration made it feel real.”
Enriching Experiences Outside the Classroom
Blanson students also participate in SkillsUSA, a national leadership and workforce competition. Students have traveled to Houston Community College and Fort Worth, with aspirations to advance to the national stage in Atlanta.
“Competitions build confidence and expose students to real-world scenarios,” said Ardoin-Bailey. “They also make our students more competitive in the job market.”
Raisa, who presented a chapter display on the logistics program, said SkillsUSA helped her see herself as a professional and a leader.
Passion Meets Real Opportunity
Mr. Bingham’s passion for logistics started in the Army, where he served as an automated logistics specialist after guidance from his uncle. In May 2024, he earned a master’s degree in Industrial Distribution from Texas A&M University. While he could easily earn double his salary in the private sector, he chooses to stay at Blanson.
“I stay because this matters,” he said. “It’s not just about jobs—it’s about building leaders.”
“Blamazon was awarded the AEF Innovative Teaching Grant,” Bingham said. “The grant will fund an inventory management system, something I’ve dreamed of integrating into the program for years.”
That commitment isn’t lost on his students. Andre, now headed to Sam Houston State University to major in supply chain management, said Mr. Bingham’s energy was what pulled him in.
“At first, I didn’t know what distribution was,” Andre said. “But Mr. Bingham broke it down and made it exciting.”
Raisa Ramirez, a junior already working on a marketing team, said the program helped her connect the dots between creativity and logistics.
“If I want to run a business someday, I need to understand distribution,” she said. “This gives me that foundation.”
Industry Connections Are Key
Ongoing input from employers keeps Blanson’s curriculum aligned with real-world demands. Local companies help shape the skillsets students need—and Blanson listens.
“We are here,” Bingham emphasized. “We’re looking for industry partners who can offer mentoring, internships, even just advice. Mentoring alone could change a student’s future.”
“The North Houston District can help us expand our reach, connect with businesses, and secure resources that keep the program growing,” Ardoin-Bailey added.
The Results Speak for Themselves
In 2024 alone, Blanson students earned more than $20 million in scholarship offers. Whether they’re heading to college, the workforce, or the military, Blanson graduates leave prepared—with certifications, experience, and confidence.
“This is not just vocational education,” said Ardoin-Bailey. “We prepare our students for college and career. Whatever their next step is—we’re making sure they’re ready.”
As North Houston continues to grow, the students of Blanson aren’t just watching change happen.
They’re leading it.
💼 Q&A with Raisa Ramirez
Class of 2026 | Junior
Career Interest: Business + Marketing in Supply Chain
Q: What drew you to this program?
A: I always knew I wanted to be in business—maybe fashion or makeup. But I realized you need distribution to make any business work. That’s why this was my first choice.
Q: What part of logistics excites you most?
A: I love the marketing side. I already work on a marketing team at a racetrack, and that experience made me realize I want to combine creative storytelling with what I’ve learned about distribution.
Q: What’s your favorite thing about class with Mr. Bingham?
A: The conversations. We talk about real-world issues—like tariffs or school policy—and how they connect to what we’re learning. It’s not something you get in every classroom.
Q: What surprised you most about logistics?
A: I thought it was just about boxes and shipping, but it’s so much more. You need leadership, analytical thinking, tech skills—it’s a lot deeper than people think.
📦 Q&A with Andre Johnson
Class of 2025 | Headed to Sam Houston State University
Major: Supply Chain Management
Q: How did you first hear about the Distribution & Logistics program at Blanson?
A: I actually got recruited a few weeks before orientation. My mom and I visited, and when we met Mr. Bingham, his energy was just different. He explained the program, and I’ve been here ever since.
Q: What made you choose logistics as a career path?
A: I had never really seen a teacher that passionate about their subject. Mr. Bingham broke everything down and made it make sense. That’s when I knew—this was it.
Q: What’s been your favorite part of the program?
A: Definitely teamwork. Mr. Bingham teaches us how to work with different people toward a common goal. That, and leading my peers—it’s something I’ll take with me into college and beyond.
Q: What’s next for you?
A: I’ll be attending Sam Houston State University to study supply chain management. And I actually received scholarship money thanks to this program.
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💼 Q&A with Wanda Ardoin-Bailey
Coordinator of Campus & Student Initiatives
Blanson CTE High School
1. How are students selected for the CTE program?
Applications are open to all incoming 8th graders. Limited seats may be available for 9th graders, depending on the program. Students must show strong attendance, behavior, and academic performance. Qualified applicants are entered into a lottery for available seats.
2. Why was the Distribution & Logistics program developed at Blanson?
All 17 programs at Blanson were selected based on job market trends and successful models across Aldine ISD. Logistics and distribution was added to help students gain skills for one of the region’s fastest-growing industries.
3. How do dual credit and certifications prepare students for careers?
These programs give students early exposure to college-level coursework and industry-recognized certifications—saving money and boosting motivation. Students graduate with real-world skills that make them more employable right out of high school.
4. What role does employer feedback play in shaping the curriculum?
Employer input is essential. It ensures the curriculum stays aligned with current industry needs, helping students build the skills companies are looking for—now and in the future.
5. How do conferences and competitions benefit students?
Events like these offer hands-on learning, networking, and exposure to real-world logistics practices. Students gain confidence, build resumes, and stay informed on industry trends.
6. What impact does the program have on students' futures?
The program equips students with practical skills and opens doors to high-demand careers. It builds a foundation for financial stability and long-term growth in the logistics field.
7. How can businesses support student participation in events?
Businesses can help by offering sponsorships, grants, scholarships, internships, and mentorships. Their support helps all students—regardless of background—access valuable opportunities.
8. How can community partners like the North Houston District help?
The North Houston District can raise awareness, help secure funding, and connect the program with other partners. Their support strengthens the program and extends its impact across the region.