Career and technical education (CTE) provides critical pathways for high school students to gain career awareness, employability skills, and technical knowledge to prepare for postsecondary careers and education. CTE encompasses a wide range of fields from information technology to healthcare to skilled trades. This article explores the many benefits of CTE programs and courses at the high school level.
Career Exploration and Readiness
A major aim of CTE is providing hands-on career exploration to help students make informed choices about future career paths. CTE options enable students to:
- Discover strengths and interests: Courses allow students to sample different occupations to understand fit.
- Gain exposure to diverse careers: Programs introduce careers students may not have previously considered.
- Develop employability skills: Students build skills applicable across all industries like communication, teamwork and problem-solving.
- Obtain credentials: Certificate programs prepare students for entry-level certification exams.
As stated by the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), “CTE provides students of all ages with the academic and technical skills, knowledge and training necessary to succeed in future careers.” It opens doors to possibility.
Technical and Occupational Training
The technical knowledge and hands-on training students gain through CTE is invaluable preparation for entering the modern workforce or pursuing further postsecondary career education. CTE delivers targeted training in fields like:
- Healthcare: Certified nursing assistant, emergency medical responder, dental assistant programs
- Computer Science and IT: Software development, cybersecurity, and coding certifications
- Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering: Operation of 3D printers, computer numerical control equipment, and robotics
- Hospitality and Tourism: Restaurant management and culinary skills
- Construction Trades: Electrical, plumbing, carpentry, welding
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Many of the fastest growing and highest paying jobs require career and technical education.” CTE builds competencies for in-demand careers.
Dual Credit Opportunities
Many CTE programs offer dual credit options for students to simultaneously earn high school and college credit. Benefits include:
- Earning certifications or credentials: Students graduate career-ready.
- Getting a head start on college majors: CTE courses articulate into related community college programs.
- Saving time and tuition costs: Dual credit reduces expenses for college degree completion.
- Previewing the college experience: Students better understand expectations and increase confidence.
Dual credit CTE expands access to postsecondary education. According to ACTE, “Rigorous CTE prepares students both for college and careers.” It opens multiple pathways.
Development of Transferable Skills
While developing technical abilities, CTE also cultivates transferable core competencies applicable in any industry, including:
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Oral and written communication
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Digital literacy and technical abilities
- Time management and personal responsibility
- Creativity and innovation
This versatility equips students for adaptability in future careers. As stated by ACTE, “CTE teaches students how to learn, providing the academic and technical skills and knowledge to prepare for college and career success.” CTE develops lifelong employability.
Conclusion
High-quality career and technical education provides invaluable experiential learning that expands students’ options and equips them with skills essential for career readiness. From healthcare to IT to skilled trades, CTE opens doors to promising career pathways while developing transferable abilities. CTE engages the workforce needs of our evolving digital economy while preparing students to fluidly navigate its opportunities.
