Introduction

The Purpose of Career and Technical Education (CTE)

CTE is a cornerstone of a national initiative to increase the competitiveness of the U.S. workforce in the global economy.  CTE provides students with a variety of skills: 

• Core academic skills and how to apply them to real-world situations in the workplace or daily life

• Employability skills essential in any career

• Occupationally specific, technical skills related to a specific career pathway

Participating in CTE gives students a foundation for career success by integrating rigorous academic content with job-occupationally-specific technical skills and hands-on learning.  Students who complete a CTE program of study in high school will be prepared to earn an aligned IBC, obtain an entry-level position, or pursue postsecondary education and training in their chosen career fields.