5 Ways to Celebrate CTE Month

Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month is almost here! Every February, schools, educators, businesses, and students across the country recognize the impact of CTE programs in shaping the workforce of tomorrow. In Delaware, CTE plays a crucial role in preparing students for in-demand careers, offering hands-on learning, industry certifications, and pathways to college and employment.

Whether you’re a student exploring career options, a teacher looking to bring career awareness into your classroom, or a workforce champion eager to support future talent, there are many ways to get involved. Here’s how you can celebrate CTE Month!

1. Explore Career Pathways in Delaware (For Students)

CTE Month is the perfect time to start thinking about your future. If you’re unsure about what career path is right for you, now is the time to explore your options. You can pick from a variety of fields, including healthcare, engineering, IT, hospitality, and more!

What you can do:

• Visit Delaware Pathways to learn about programs available to you..
• Talk to your school counselor about enrolling in a CTE program or participating in work-based learning.
• Attend career fairs or industry events where you can meet professionals and learn about different fields.
• Join a Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSOs).

By taking action now, you can set yourself up for success in high school, college, and beyond!

2. Bring Career Connections into the Classroom (For Educators)

Even if you don’t teach a CTE course, you can still help students connect what they’re learning to real-world careers. When students understand how their studies apply to future jobs, they become more engaged and motivated.

How you can integrate career awareness:

• Guest Speakers: Invite industry professionals, former students, or CTE educators to speak in your class.
• Real-World Projects: Incorporate industry-related assignments or challenges that mimic workplace scenarios.
• Career Research: Assign students projects where they research careers, salary expectations, and required skills.

A little career exposure can go a long way in helping students make informed decisions about their future.

3. Partner with Schools to Support Future Talent (For Workforce Champions)

Businesses play a key role in shaping the future workforce. If you’re an employer, industry leader, or workforce advocate, CTE Month is a great time to get involved in student career development. You can help build a skilled talent pipeline while giving back to the community.

Ways to get involved:

• Offer job shadowing opportunities to help students see careers in action.
• Provide internships or apprenticeships to give students hands-on experience in your industry.
• Speak at school career events to share insights about what employers look for in new hires.
• Join a CTE advisory board to help shape curriculum and training programs.

Your expertise can help students gain valuable skills and confidence as they prepare for life after high school.

4. Celebrate CTE Success Stories (For Everyone)

CTE programs change lives. Many students graduate with industry certifications, college credits, and even job offers before they finish high school. Sharing these success stories not only highlights the value of CTE but also inspires more students to explore these pathways.

How you can celebrate:

• Students: Share your CTE journey on social media and tag @DelawarePathways.
• Teachers: Recognize standout students who have excelled in their CTE programs.
• Businesses: Highlight employees who started their careers through a CTE program.
• Schools: Host an event or feature success stories in newsletters, websites, or social media.

The more we share, the more people will see how CTE programs lead to real opportunities and career success.

5. Spread the Word About CTE Month (For Everyone)

Raising awareness about CTE helps more students, educators, and businesses get involved. Whether you’re posting on social media, attending an event, or simply talking to students about their options, every effort counts.

How you can help promote CTE:

• Post about CTE Month on social media.
• Businesses can share job and internship opportunities for CTE students.
• Educators can display CTE posters and resources in classrooms and hallways.
• Parents can encourage their children to explore different career pathways and talk to counselors about available programs.

The more people know about CTE, the more students will benefit from these life-changing opportunities!

Visit Delaware Pathways to learn more about CTE and how to get involved!