AAt Work

Honoring the Impact of Career and Technical Schools

0
Shares
0
0
0
0
Group of professionals in work attire, including safety vests and lab coats, standing in an industrial facility with equipment in the background.

Career and technical schools are vital in preparing skilled workers to enter the workforce across many industries. From hands-on training that qualifies students for certifications to apprenticeship programs, students have the opportunity to learn essential skills they need to succeed. Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month® each February recognizes the accomplishments of CTE programs, educators, and the importance of education for students of all ages.

The impact of career and technical schools on students and the local workforce is unmatched. Discover the benefits offered to students, the economy, and employers from the Association for Career & Technical Educators.

An infographic with several stats about Career and Technical Education Month. Inscribed text says: What is Career and Technical Education? 92% of high school students and 69% of college and adult students are engaged in CTE, learning skills in the classroom and on the job. CTE is delivered at comprehensive and CTE dedicated high schools, magnet schools, area technical centers, community and technical colleges and some four year universities. CTE students earn industry certifications and licenses, post secondary certificates, associate degrees, bachelors degrees and higher. CTE is good for students, good for businesses and good for communities. CTE high school students are college and career ready 96% graduate high school and most enroll directly in college. Associate degrees in CTE fields can pay up to .8 million in lifetime earnings and pay more than bachelors degrees in other fields while limiting student debt. CTE is the answer to the nation’s projected deficit of 6.5 million skilled workers, including infrastructure, health care and manufacturing workforce shortages. CTE prepares the workforce across a wide range of industries and occupations. There’s a column with industries and icons representing each, that lists agriculture, food and natural resources; architecture and construction; arts, A/V technology and communication; business management and administration; education and training; finance; government and public administration; health science; hospitality and tourism; human services; information technology; law, public safety, corrections, and security; manufacturing; marketing; science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM); transportation, distribution, and logistics. Learn more about CTE at acteonline.org.

About Express Employment Professionals

At Express Employment Professionals, we’re in the business of people. From job seekers to client companies, Express helps people thrive and businesses grow. Our international network of franchises offers localized staffing solutions to the communities they serve across the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, employing more than 11 million since its inception. Learn more at ExpressPros.com or ExpressPros.ca.

Last Updated on March 27, 2026

Jessica is a Senior Content Marketing Specialist at Express Employment International creating content for employers, leaders, and about the workplace of today. She is an accomplished former social media professional and award-winning writer. When Jessica isn’t writing about key leadership characteristics or best workplace practices, she’s spending time with her dog and planning her next road trip.

— Previous article

Dodge the Deceit: Spotting and Avoiding Job Scams 

Next article —

Lessons from Great Leaders—Black History Month