3 Ways Career and Technical Education (CTE) Prepares Students for Success in College and Career

Career and Technical Education (CTE) is a vital component of secondary programming that prepares students for college and career success. As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, CTE programs are more important than ever, as they provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the workforce.

CTE Pocket Guide: Create a high quality CTE program

CTE programs provide students with hands-on learning experiences, specialized training, and real-world skills that are essential for success in college and the workforce. Here are some ways that high school administrators and counselors can prepare students for college and career success by offering high quality CTE courses:

Provide students with hands-on learning experiences.

CTE programs provide students with hands-on learning experiences that are not typically found in traditional classroom settings. These experiences, such as internships, apprenticeships, and job shadowing, allow students to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations. This type of learning is particularly beneficial for students who may not be interested in pursuing a traditional four-year college degree, as it allows them to explore different career options and gain valuable skills.

Offer specialized courses in specific fields of interest.

CTE programs provide students with the opportunity to explore specific fields of interest. For example, a student who is interested in pursuing a career in healthcare can take courses in healthcare technology or nursing, while a student who is interested in engineering can take courses in robotics or computer-aided design. These specialized courses give students a taste of what it would be like to work in a particular field and can help them make more informed decisions about their future careers, including degreed and non-degreed options, certificates and non-traditional pathways to career success that are needed and valuable in today's workforce.

Provide students with college and career readiness skills.

CTE programs are effective in ensuring students' readiness for college and career. These programs can provide students with the technical skills and knowledge that are in high demand by employers and colleges, including skills in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and math. Furthermore, CTE programs can also provide students with the soft skills that are essential for success, such as teamwork, problem-solving, and communication. Students that participate in CTE programming are exposed to additional learning experiences and set themselves apart from their peers with marketable skills.

CTE programs are an essential part of high school education that provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in college and career. As high school administrators and counselors, it is critical to provide students with equitable access to CTE courses that will ensure they are better prepared for the workforce and have a greater chance of achieving their career goals.  

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