Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are specialized educational tracks designed to equip students with practical skills and knowledge tailored to specific industries or careers, including business management and administration, information technology, health science, and more. A key feature of these programs is their close partnerships with local businesses, which provide valuable hands-on training and real-world experiences. Many CTE programs invite professionals into the classroom to share their expertise, offering students a direct connection to the industries they aspire to join – and often introducing them to new opportunities. This collaboration presents a significant opportunity for the private sector to engage with students and schools, helping to shape the future workforce.  

In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of CTE programs, the role businesses can play in supporting these programs, the common challenges they face, and how EVERFI can help overcome them. 

Three Benefits of CTE Programs

• Career Readiness: CTE programs prepare students for the workforce by introducing them to a variety of career options and working with the private sector to provide them with practical skills and experiences that are directly applicable to their chosen careers. According to the U.S. Department of Education, students who concentrate on CTE are 21% more likely to graduate from high school on time compared to the national average. This hands-on learning approach not only makes students more competitive in the job market, but it helps them rule out careers that may not be a good match for them, so that they can decide where to invest their time and money in education and training. 

• Enhanced Engagement: By connecting education to real-world applications, CTE programs increase student engagement and motivation. Studies have shown that students enrolled in CTE programs are more likely to report a positive attitude toward school. Students are more likely to excel when they see the relevance of their studies to their future careers. 

• Pathways to Higher Education: Many CTE programs offer dual credit or certification opportunities, allowing students to earn college credits or industry-recognized credentials while still in high school. This can reduce the cost and time required to obtain a degree or certification. According to research from the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), students involved in CTE courses have a higher postsecondary enrollment rate, with 91% of high school graduates who earned two to three CTE credits pursuing further education. 

Why Corporations Should Invest in CTE Programs

CTE programs are not just about education – they’re about creating opportunities for students to connect with the real world. This is where businesses can make a significant impact. By partnering with local schools and school districts, companies can help shape curricula, ensuring students learn relevant, up-to-date skills. Moreover, employees can volunteer in classrooms, introduce students to careers they may not have considered, and form meaningful connections with future professionals. 

Investing in CTE goes beyond philanthropy; it’s a strategic move to ensure a skilled workforce that aligns with industry demands. A study by Deloitte found that by 2028, there will be 2.4 million unfilled jobs in the U.S. due to the skills gap, which CTE programs can help mitigate. Companies that support CTE programs not only gain access to a well-prepared workforce but also play a pivotal role in contributing to social mobility by opening doors for students from diverse backgrounds. This involvement can range from offering internships and mentorships, to providing scholarships to students. And, since federal funding for CTE programs is often linked to demonstrating innovation, the active involvement of local businesses is crucial in developing dynamic and engaging pathways for students. 

CTE Challenges 

Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs offer numerous benefits but implementing them is not without its challenges. Addressing these obstacles is crucial for ensuring that CTE programs continue to evolve and meet the needs of the modern workforce. 

• Funding Constraints: CTE programs often operate with limited financial resources, which can restrict their ability to offer high-quality training, maintain up-to-date equipment, or expand to serve more students. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) found that more than 50% of public school districts struggle to adequately fund CTE programs, limiting their reach and effectiveness. Funding limitations can also impact the availability of qualified instructors, as competitive salaries are necessary to attract professionals with industry experience.  

• Accessibility Issues: Not all students have equal access to CTE programs, particularly those in rural, underserved, or economically disadvantaged areas. Geographic location, school resources, and socioeconomic factors can create barriers to participation.  These disparities contribute to inequitable opportunities and outcomes among students, with lower-income students facing a 30% higher likelihood of not participating in CTE programs, according to data from the ACTE. 

• Industry Alignment: Ensuring that CTE programs align with current industry needs and standards is another significant challenge. The rapid pace of technological advancement and evolving industry demands require continuous curriculum updates and strong partnerships with businesses. Without these connections, CTE programs risk becoming outdated, leaving students underprepared for the workforce. 

• Stigma and Perception: Despite the clear benefits, CTE programs often face a stigma that they are less valuable than traditional academic pathways. This perception can discourage students, parents, and even educators from fully embracing CTE as a viable option for future success. Overcoming these misconceptions requires a concerted effort to highlight the diverse opportunities and career pathways that CTE programs can provide, including those in high-demand, high-paying fields such as technology, healthcare, and business. 

• Teacher Shortages: CTE programs frequently struggle with a shortage of qualified teachers who have both the necessary educational background and real-world industry experience. This challenge is exacerbated by the competitive salaries offered in the private sector, which can draw potential instructors away from teaching positions. ACTE research highlights that nearly 25% of CTE programs report a lack of qualified instructors as a primary barrier to their success. 

How EVERFI Helps

As CTE programs continue to evolve, increasing adoption across the country will be essential to meeting the demands of the modern workforce. Enhancing partnerships between schools and the private sector, improving funding mechanisms, and expanding access to underrepresented communities will be critical steps in advancing these programs. 

EVERFI plays a significant role in supporting CTE programs by offering digital resources, tools, and partnerships that enhance the quality and accessibility of these educational opportunities. Through its interactive platform, EVERFI prepares students beyond high school with college and career readiness resources and courses that teach life and employability skills to students. Learn more about EVERFI’s solutions and how they can support educational goals here.