Press Releases

On Tuesday, February 25th, U.S. Congressman Ralph Norman joined Congressmen Jim Langevin (D-RI) and Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson (R-PA), co-chairs of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Caucus, in introducing H. Res. 864, a bipartisan resolution recognizing National CTE Month, which is observed every February and celebrates the value and impact of career and technical education programs across the nation.

"CTE programs open doors for students of all ages and backgrounds by equipping them with real-world knowledge and skills," said Rep. Norman. "This resolutions helps raise awareness of how these programs help close the skills gap develop America's workforce."

CTE prepares students for careers in fields such as healthcare, information technology, and the skilled trades. There are more than 7 million job openings nationally, and many are within industries with noted skilled labor shortages. By 2026, health care occupations alone are projected to grow by 18 percent, adding more than 2 million jobs nationwide. It is also projected that 3 million workers will be needed to support investments in the nation’s infrastructure in the next decade.

More than 12 million students are enrolled in CTE programs at high schools, career academies, CTE centers, and two-year colleges across the country. Participation in CTE programs has been linked to better attendance and higher high school graduation rates. The resolution recognizes the importance of CTE and encourages educators, counselors, career development professionals, and parents to promote CTE as an option for students.