Career & Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) accelerate student’s career and college readiness through experiential learning, leadership and personal development, and by facilitating employer and community engagement. They are an integral component of high-quality CTE programs, functioning both in and out of the classroom.

CTSOs help guide students in developing a career path and the skills to excel in them through programs, career and leadership competitions, and conferences, meetings, and events. CTSOs are national 501(c)3 non-profit educational organizations with state associations and local chapters. They are embedded in the career and technical education system providing teacher professional development, curriculum resources, and are governed by CTE teachers and administrators.

CTE students have the opportunity to hold leadership positions at the local, state, and national level. Student-leaders contribute to the development and execution of an annual program of work, advise adults in creating events and conference programs, represent the organization in promotional and partnership building activities, and help engage students and members in the organization.

CTSOs share common activities through unique cultures and career field specializations:

• Career exploration and preparation

• Leadership development and student officers

• Community service and civic engagement

• A suite of competitive events, awards, and scholarships

• Instructional resources and teacher training and development opportunities

DECA is available to all high school students who are currently enrolled in marketing and entrepreneurship education courses. DECA members have the opportunity to enhance their working knowledge of vocational skills, community service, leadership development, and social intelligence. DECA competitive events participants compete in written papers, tests, and role-playing events that simulate actual business situations. They are judged by business people in the specific occupational area. 

Schools:

• South Brunswick High School

• West Brunswick High School

Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) inspires and prepares students to become community-minded business leaders in a global society through relevant career preparation and leadership experiences. FBLA competitive events prepare students for successful careers in business by providing opportunities to apply classroom concepts in a workforce-simulated competitive environment. 

Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) functions as an integral part of the Family and Consumer Sciences education curriculum. FCCLA members make a difference in families, careers, and communities by addressing important personal, work, and societal issues. Members develop real world skills, become future-ready, and explore career pathways in education and human services, hospitality and tourism, and visual arts and design. 

Schools:

• South Brunswick High School

• The COAST

FFA is the agricultural education youth organization that prepares members for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success. FFA develops members’ potential and helps them discover their talent through hands-on experiences, which give members the tools to achieve real-world success. 

Schools:

• North Brunswick High School

• South Brunswick High School

• West Brunswick High School

HOSA’s mission is to empower HOSA-Future Health Professionals to become leaders in the global health community, through education, collaboration, and experience. HOSA actively promotes career opportunities in the health industry and to enhance the delivery of quality health care to all people. More than 50 competitive events include health science, health professions, emergency preparedness, leadership, teamwork, and recognition events.

Schools:

• North Brunswick High School

• South Brunswick High School

• West Brunswick High School

SkillsUSA serves students who are preparing for careers or further education in trade, technical, and skilled occupations. SkillsUSA develops champions at work by partnering with industry to implement a variety of local, state, and national opportunities that include leadership development conferences, industry-driven competitive events, and local chapter activities that provide students with the opportunity to lead and grow in their schools and communities. 

Schools:

• South Brunswick High School

• West Brunswick High School

• The COAST

Technology Student Association (TSA) is an essential element of a technology education program, providing students the opportunity to engage in activities directly reflecting the curriculum. Along with learning collaboration and leadership skills, students can engage in student-centered, complex tasks that are authentic and developed over an extended period. Beyond the powerful influence of the activities, participation in TSA helps transform students by attending regional, state, and national conferences.