CTE Overview

Career and technical education is an essential component of the total educational system in Pennsylvania by providing students and adults with the technical skills, knowledge and training necessary to succeed in specific occupations and careers. It prepares students for the world of work by introducing them to workplace competencies that are essential no matter what career they choose. And, career and technical education takes academic content and makes it accessible to students by providing it in a hands-on context.

Career and technical education provides individuals with options in life. Making good decisions about careers or postsecondary education is enhanced by students having a plan for the career of their choice, which includes a solid understanding of the education and skills necessary to succeed in that field. Career and technical education opens doors to students' minds, education and careers.

Career and technical education offers benefits to students pursuing careers requiring specific technical skills, as well as providing a strong foundation for those pursuing postsecondary education. It is an integral part of the total educational mission, contributing to the goals of high academic achievement, student retention and motivation and the development of general workplace and life skills. Students participating in career and technical education programs are prepared to be successful in their next step in life, whether that is college, a career or both!

Consider these facts-
  • Skilled workers comprise 65% of the workforce, up from 45% in 1991.
  • In 1993, 27% of businesses viewed the lack of skilled workers as a barrier to growth. in 1998, this number jumped to 70%.
  • By the year 2020, there could be a worker shortage of up to 10 million for skilled jobs.
  • Those in skilled trades averaged an unemployment rate of 2% in 1999, almost half the rate of the general workforce.