Celebrating Career and Technical Education Month: Bridging Talent and Opportunity
By Ryan Hundt
Every February, we celebrate Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the importance of CTE programs and the impact they have on Michigan’s workforce. CTE provides students and job seekers with the hands-on training and skills they need to excel in high-demand fields, from healthcare and manufacturing to information technology and skilled trades.
At the Michigan Works! Association, we know that a strong workforce starts with strong education and training opportunities. That’s why we proudly support CTE programs across the state, working alongside educators, businesses, and workforce partners to ensure that Michiganders have access to the skills and credentials needed for career success.
Why CTE Matters in Michigan
CTE programs are vital to Michigan’s economic growth and workforce development. These programs:
Prepare students for in-demand careers – By combining classroom learning with real-world experience, CTE programs help individuals gain the technical and soft skills needed to succeed in today’s job market.
Connect employers with skilled workers – Employers across Michigan are facing workforce shortages in key industries. CTE helps bridge this gap by producing job-ready graduates who meet industry needs.
Offer pathways to good-paying jobs – CTE students often earn industry-recognized credentials and certifications, allowing them to enter the workforce directly or continue their education with a competitive edge.
Support lifelong learning – Many CTE programs provide opportunities for upskilling and reskilling, ensuring that workers can adapt to changing industry demands and advance in their careers.
Michigan Works! and CTE: A Powerful Partnership
Michigan Works! agencies across the state are committed to expanding access to CTE opportunities by:
Connecting students and job seekers with training programs – Our career coaches help individuals explore CTE pathways and access tuition assistance, apprenticeships, and other hands-on learning experiences.
Partnering with businesses to meet workforce needs – We work closely with employers to align training programs with industry demands, ensuring that students graduate with the skills that businesses need.
Supporting career exploration and workforce development – Through job fairs, career readiness workshops, and industry partnerships, we help students and job seekers make informed decisions about their futures.
Get Involved in CTE Month!
There are many ways to celebrate and promote CTE throughout February:
Spread the word – Share stories of successful CTE graduates, local training programs, and employer partnerships on social media using #CTEMonth and #MichiganWorks.
Attend a CTE event – Schools, workforce agencies, and community organizations host events to highlight CTE opportunities. Check with your local Michigan Works! office to see what’s happening near you.
Support CTE programs – Employers can get involved by offering job shadows, internships, or apprenticeships to CTE students, helping them gain valuable real-world experience.
At Michigan Works! Association, we believe that investing in Career and Technical Education is investing in Michigan’s future. By working together, we can build a skilled workforce that drives innovation, strengthens our economy, and provides opportunities for all.
Want to learn more about how CTE can benefit you or your business? Visit your local Michigan Works! agency today!