Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month® is a public awareness campaign, hosted by ACTE and sponsored by National Association of Home Builders, that takes place each February to celebrate CTE, the accomplishments of CTE programs and the importance of CTE for all students of all ages. This month six students from WHS were spotlighted: Jacob Inskeep, Anthony Wilson, Henry VanOrden, Avery Ebert, Ryleigh Batt, and James Stier. Each of these students is well on the way to finishing their CTE completer, and a step closer to achieving their goals.
CTE courses are available in all FCPS high schools and the Career & Technology Center (CTC). These courses encourage academic skill development and practical, hands-on skills. There are some required classes— such as one credit in business and one credit in computer science or engineering— but there are also classes like mechanics, horticulture, or animal sciences, which students can pursue to find their own passions. Unlike other classes, CTE courses offer ways to demonstrate competence and even get certifications.
Many students who are involved in CTE courses mark them as the most significant part of their high school experiences. Henry Van Orden, who completed the CTE’s computer literacy program and recently received admission to UMD’s extremely competitive computer science program, stated that the “CTE pathway” is what “opened up opportunities for me in the digital space.” Ryleigh Batt, who completed CTE’s Wood Design/Spanish pathway and who plans to join the military, stated that CTE taught her “how to work with my mentors and use the skills I’ve learned to problem solve.”
While some programs allow students to enter directly into the workplace, CTE classes can help prepare students for a variety of different paths, including graduate education. For example, Henry’s experience in advanced computer science courses were one factor that contributed to his admission to UMD. CTC is always adding more programs—which can be taken alongside regular high school classes—like biomedical sciences and dental hygiene, which can provide a more thorough education than traditional classes. This enables students to gain experience and pursue graduate education in desired fields.
In order to expand opportunities, it’s a good idea to expand your knowledge base and network the job force. The CTE program is a way to do this. If you’d like more information, have a conversation with one of the technology teachers or your guidance counselor. Opportunity awaits those who step up to the challenge.
