Celebrate and Elevate Career and Technical Education

Every February, schools and communities across the country celebrate Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month®. This special month highlights how CTE prepares students for real careers, strengthens local industries, and helps build a skilled workforce for the future.

CTE Month is more than a celebration—it is a time to recognize students, teachers, and partners who are working together to connect learning with real-world opportunities.

What Is CTE?

Career and Technical Education helps students explore careers and gain hands-on skills while still in school. CTE programs prepare students for careers in areas like healthcare, manufacturing, construction, cybersecurity, engineering, business, and more.

Through CTE, students can:

• Learn job-ready skills

• Earn industry certifications

• Explore career options early

• Connect school to real life

CTE gives students a head start—whether they plan to go to college, technical school, the military, or straight into the workforce.

Why CTE Month Matters

CTE Month shines a spotlight on the impact of these programs. It helps communities understand how CTE supports students and local businesses at the same time.

When CTE is strong:

• Students graduate with skills and confidence

• Employers gain access to trained workers

• Families see clear pathways to good jobs

• Communities grow and thrive

CTE Month reminds us that education and workforce development go hand in hand.

How Students Can Get Involved

Students are at the heart of CTE Month. They can get involved by:

• Sharing what they are learning in their CTE classes

• Participating in skills competitions or projects

• Creating videos, posters, or presentations about their career pathways

• Inviting friends to learn more about CTE programs

Celebrating CTE helps students feel proud of their skills and future goals.

How Families Can Support CTE

Families play an important role in helping students succeed. During CTE Month, families can:

• Talk with students about their career interests

• Ask about certifications or work-based learning

• Attend school events or open houses

• Follow and share CTE stories on social media

These simple actions show students that their goals matter.

How Businesses and Community Partners Can Help

CTE Month is also a great time for local businesses to connect with schools. Industry partners can:

• Visit classrooms as guest speakers

• Offer job shadowing or internships

• Support student projects

• Share real-world career stories

These partnerships help students see how their learning connects to real jobs—and help businesses build their future workforce.

Celebrating and Elevating CTE

CTE Month is about celebrating what works and looking ahead to what’s possible. By working together, schools, families, and businesses can ensure students are ready for the careers of tomorrow.

This February, join us in celebrating Career and Technical Education and the powerful role it plays in building strong students, strong industries, and strong communities.