Workforce Development
Career and Technical Education
Knowing about local career and technical education (CTE) is crucial for a solid workforce development program.
Check out the opportunities that exist in your area. Can local businesses join to support the curriculum and students, ensuring that they graduate prepared to enter the workforce?
Career and technical education sources:
- Public middle and high schools
- Private technical schools
- Community colleges
- Pre-apprenticeships
- Registered apprenticeships
- Company-led training
Unlock Career Excitement for Students
STS Steel, Inc. is forging strong connections with local schools by inviting students to explore the world of steel fabrication. Educators and companies share a passion for shaping bright futures, making this partnership a perfect fit.
Discover how enthusiasm and opportunity for student success can open doors and inspire the next generation of skilled professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “CTE”?
CTE stands for Career and Technical Education, which uses hands-on instruction to prepare individuals for high-skill, high-wage, in-demand employment.
CTE programs provide learners with the professional skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive in their careers. CTE is available at comprehensive and CTE-dedicated high schools; magnet schools; area technical centers; community and technical colleges; and some four-year universities. Learn more here.
What is the difference between registered apprenticeships (RA) and “little-a” apprenticeships?
Apprenticeships combine paid on-the-job learning and formal instruction to help a learner develop competency in a given job field. There are two types of apprenticeships: those that are registered through the federal government and those that are not, commonly referred to as "little-a" apprenticeships.
- Registered apprenticeships are formally approved by either the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship or a state apprenticeship agency. They are required to have five core components: a paid job, on-the-job learning, classroom learning, mentorship, and credentials for the apprentice at the end of the program. Learn more here.
- "Little-a" apprenticeships typically are just as rigorous but may not meet some of the federal requirements for formal designation. They contain the first four core components of registered apprenticeships but often do not end in a formal credential.
How do I learn more about CTE in my area? Whom should I connect with?
An internet search including keywords like “career and technical education” in combination with your town, surrounding towns, or county will bring up a list of the schools that provide CTE curricula. School or district CTE directors are often helpful contacts and know about the curricula or career pathways offered across their school system. Welding gets a lot of attention, but students pursuing carpentry, construction, architecture, or engineering training also have a place in fabrication. Make it clear that you are interested in supporting all of those career pathways and let the CTE director guide the discussion.
Try this template to organize your research for easy reference as you learn about the resources in your area.