What Are Career and Technical Programs?

admin February 22, 2025No Comments

Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs in Maryland are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in today’s global economy. These programs are strategically structured to meet the demands of the workforce and are aligned with both national and state industry standards, as well as rigorous academic benchmarks.

CTE programs are thoughtfully organized around career clusters, which are essentially groupings of related occupations and industries that share common features and core functions. This clustering approach helps students explore various career pathways within a specific field of interest. These programs are built upon a foundation of academic and technical skill standards, ensuring that students are well-prepared for both higher education and immediate career entry.

A key component of Maryland CTE programs is the emphasis on practical, work-based learning experiences. Students have opportunities to engage in internships, apprenticeships, clinical experiences, and industry-mentored projects. These experiences provide invaluable real-world application of classroom learning and help students develop professional skills. Furthermore, CTE programs offer pathways to earn college credit while still in high school and to acquire industry-recognized credentials such as certifications and licenses, boosting their employability and academic standing.

Maryland’s CTE programs are developed through collaborations with state and national partners, ensuring consistency and high standards across the state. The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) works closely with businesses, higher education institutions, and local school systems to continuously refine and update CTE programs. This collaborative effort ensures the programs remain relevant, rigorous, and aligned with evolving industry needs. A significant focus is placed on expanding CTE programs in high-demand fields, particularly in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines, to meet the growing needs of these critical sectors.

Local education agencies have flexibility in implementing CTE programs. They can adopt state-designed programs or develop their own local CTE programs, provided these local programs meet the approval of the Division of Career and College Readiness. This ensures that all CTE programs, whether state or locally developed, adhere to quality standards and effectively prepare students for future success.

For those seeking to develop local CTE programs, the Policies and Procedures for the Development and Continuous Improvement of Career and Technical Education document serves as a valuable guide.