CTE Programs
Career and Technical Education (CTE) Programs in K-12 Schools
Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs prepare students for high-demand careers through a combination of academic knowledge, technical training, and real-world experience. These programs are offered in traditional public schools and help students explore career pathways starting as early as middle and high school.
Students searching for trade schools near me or a career academy might also find that high school CTE courses are a good first step on their career path. A trade school education or a high school CTE certification can lead to good-paying jobs and/or the desire for additional education.
What are CTE Career Clusters?
CTE programs are organized into career clusters—groups of related industries and occupations. The Student Interest Survey for Career Clusters is a guidance tool that provides the top three clusters that might suit a student’s interests.
The variety of CTE courses related to the career cluster topics are limitless. The most popular CTE classes include Culinary Arts, Baking, Accounting, Energy Technology, Web Design, Business Management, Business Law, Computer Information Systems, Architectural Drafting, Auto Mechanics, Graphic Design, Construction, Metalwork, Welding, Furniture Making, Floral Design, Building Trades, Health Sciences, Multimedia Arts, Law Enforcement, Agriculture, Audio-Video Technology, Building Trades, Health Occupations, etc.
Benefits of CTE Programs for Students
- College and Career Readiness: Prepares students for postsecondary education or immediate entry into the workforce.
- Real-World Skills: Provides technical skills and workplace competencies employers seek.
- Exploration of Career Options: Helps students discover interests through classes like Exploring Early Childhood or Energy Technology.
- Higher Earning Potential: Many CTE certifications lead to high-wage, high-skill careers directly out of high school.
Explore School District CTE Career Clusters
Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources
Architecture and Construction
Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Business, Marketing, and Finance
Education and Training
Energy
Health Science
Hospitality and Tourism
Human Services
Information Technology
Law and Public Service
Manufacturing
STEM
Discover numerous pathways to STEM careers in Bioscience, Cybersecurity, Renewable Energy, Computer Science, and Engineering.
Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics
CTE Programs
Career and Technical Education students learn academic and technical skills while getting hands-on training.
