Career and Technical Education (CTE) is gaining significant traction across the United States, and for good reason. Its importance to the nation’s economy and individual career prospects is becoming increasingly clear. However, for many, the question remains: what are career technical programs exactly?
As experts at carcodereader.store, deeply familiar with the technical skills required in the automotive industry and beyond, we understand the value of practical, hands-on education. Drawing on insights from CTE curriculum developers and our own experience in the field, we aim to clarify the concept of career technical programs and their vital role in today’s world.
Career technical programs, also known as Career and Technical Education (CTE), are educational initiatives designed to equip students with specific, job-ready skills. These programs are offered across middle schools, high schools, and post-secondary institutions, bridging the gap between academic learning and the demands of various industries.
CTE is structured around 16 distinct career clusters, each representing a broad spectrum of high-demand professions. These clusters are:
- Health Science
- Business, Management, and Administration
- Marketing, Sales, and Service
- Finance
- Information Technology
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
- Manufacturing
- Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Government and Public Administration
- Law, Public Safety, and Security
- Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources
- Human Services
- Architecture and Construction
- Education and Training
- Arts, Audio/Visual Technology, and Communications
This article provides an in-depth exploration of career technical programs, delving into each CTE cluster, their significance, and the advantages they offer to students seeking fulfilling and impactful careers.
Defining Career Technical Education Programs
To truly understand what career technical programs are, we need a solid definition. For our purposes, we’ll use the following:
Career technical education (CTE) programs are focused on teaching skills-based careers to students from middle school through post-secondary levels, preparing them for the workforce and further education.
This definition encapsulates the core elements of CTE: its emphasis on practical skills and its relevance across different age groups and educational stages. It highlights that career technical programs are not just about learning about a career, but actively developing the skills needed to succeed in that career.
Let’s break down the key aspects of this definition:
1. Skill-Focused Education
The primary characteristic of career technical programs is their focus on developing practical skills. This distinguishes CTE from traditional academic paths that often prioritize theoretical knowledge. While CTE may include foundational theory, the emphasis is firmly placed on hands-on experience, application, and skill mastery.
This skill-centric approach is crucial because many CTE careers demand practical experience even before entering the workforce. Consider fields like health science, law enforcement, agriculture, or construction. Professionals in these sectors often deal with situations where lives and safety are directly impacted. Therefore, career technical programs prioritize practical training and real-world application to ensure students are prepared for the responsibilities of their chosen fields.
Instructors in career technical programs often prioritize practice, hands-on learning, and continuous improvement over rote memorization of textbooks, ensuring students develop the competencies needed for workplace success.
2. Wide Applicability Across Age Ranges
Another defining feature of career technical programs is their broad applicability across various educational levels. The beauty of CTE is that foundational career skills can be introduced as early as middle school, and progressively developed through high school and post-secondary education.
This allows students to explore different career paths early on and build a strong skills foundation that can be expanded upon as they progress through their education. Career technical programs are available in middle schools, high schools, community colleges, technical schools, and universities. Upon completion of a CTE program, students can earn industry-recognized certifications that enhance their employability and demonstrate their competence to potential employers. Many of these certifications are aligned with high-demand industries, providing graduates with immediate career opportunities.
It’s important to note that career technical programs don’t limit students to a single career path. Many students utilize CTE courses as a springboard to further education at community colleges or four-year universities. CTE provides a solid foundation of skills and knowledge that can be valuable in various academic and professional pursuits.
The Dual Advantages of Career Technical Programs
The unique focus and broad applicability of career technical programs lead to two significant advantages:
- High Specialization: CTE programs offer focused training in specific career areas, allowing students to develop deep expertise in their chosen field.
- Incredible Versatility: Despite their specialization, CTE skills are often transferable and applicable across a range of industries and contexts, making graduates adaptable and employable in diverse roles.
This combination of specialization and versatility is a powerful asset that sets CTE apart from many other educational approaches. Traditionally, education is often seen as either broad and general or highly specific and narrow. Career technical programs break this mold by providing students with specialized skills that are simultaneously versatile and adaptable to the evolving needs of the modern workforce.
Now, let’s explore the 16 career clusters that form the backbone of career technical programs, providing a diverse range of options for students to pursue their passions and build successful careers.
Exploring the 16 Career Clusters in Career Technical Programs
The 16 CTE career clusters represent distinct areas of specialized knowledge and skills aligned with high-demand occupations. These clusters are designed to offer students a wide spectrum of career exploration opportunities, allowing them to discover their interests and talents while preparing for rewarding professions. While some clusters may experience higher demand at certain times, all are subject to continuous evolution driven by technological advancements, industry best practices, and emerging trends.
Career technical programs offer a valuable alternative to traditional academic pathways, yet they also seamlessly integrate with higher education. Many CTE graduates choose to pursue further studies at four-year universities or even advanced degree programs, building upon the practical foundation they gained in CTE.
Ultimately, each CTE career cluster is designed to impart both essential life skills and job-specific competencies, empowering students to become productive, contributing members of their communities and jumpstarting their professional lives.
To gain a clearer understanding of the breadth and depth of career technical programs, let’s examine each of the 16 CTE career clusters individually. Keep in mind that this is a general overview, and specific career pathways and program offerings may vary by state and local regions. It is always advisable to check the specific CTE programs available in your state or local educational institutions.
1. Health Science
Popular Careers: Registered Nurse, Medical Assistant, Emergency Medical Technician
Health Science stands out as the largest and one of the most sought-after CTE clusters today. This cluster encompasses a wide array of careers within the healthcare sector, all centered around patient care and well-being.
With an aging population and continuous advancements in medical technology, the demand for healthcare professionals is consistently high. Students pursuing health science career technical programs find themselves in a field with abundant and diverse career pathways. Graduates can pursue roles as registered nurses, medical assistants, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), home health aides, and many other essential healthcare positions.
While advanced healthcare roles often require university degrees, many entry-level health science positions are accessible immediately after completing a CTE program and obtaining relevant certifications. Certifications such as Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) can equip students with the credentials needed to enter the healthcare workforce directly after high school. Organizations like the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) are prominent providers of healthcare certifications recognized across the industry. Regardless of the specific pathway chosen, certifications play a crucial role in demonstrating competency and enhancing employability in the health science field.
2. Business, Management, & Administration
Popular Careers: Human Resources Specialist, Administrative Services Manager, Operations Manager
Business, Management, and Administration programs are among the most versatile within CTE. A foundation in business principles is valuable across virtually every industry and career path, particularly in management and leadership roles.
While some students may choose to pursue business degrees at the college level, CTE business education provides fundamental knowledge and skills essential for success in corporate environments or even for launching entrepreneurial ventures.
The Business Management and Administration cluster focuses on developing skills in areas such as leadership, communication, organizational management, and strategic planning. Career technical programs in this cluster prepare students for roles in human resources, administration, project management, and operations. Industry-recognized certifications, such as the Express Employment Professionals Business Office Technology Certification, IC3 Certification, and Microsoft Office Specialist certifications, can further validate students’ skills and enhance their career prospects. Regardless of the industry they choose, CTE graduates with a business background are well-positioned to make immediate contributions in various organizational settings.
3. Marketing, Sales, and Service
Popular Careers: Marketing Specialist, Sales Representative, Customer Service Representative
Marketing, Sales, and Service career technical programs focus on the principles of customer acquisition and retention, essential for the success of any business.
Careers in this cluster encompass different facets of the customer journey, all vital to maintaining a thriving enterprise:
- Marketing: Focuses on creating initial interest and converting potential customers into leads.
- Sales: Involves presenting products or services to leads and converting them into paying customers.
- Customer Service: Ensures customer satisfaction, builds loyalty, and fosters long-term customer relationships.
CTE programs in this cluster equip students with skills in market research, digital marketing, sales techniques, customer relationship management, and communication. Students learn to work collaboratively across these functions to create seamless and positive customer experiences. Industry credentials, such as the Express Employment Professionals Career Preparedness Certification, can provide valuable recognition of students’ readiness for the demands of the business world.
4. Finance
Popular Careers: Financial Analyst, Accountant, Loan Officer
The Finance CTE cluster is designed to teach students the essential principles of financial management, including bookkeeping, accounting, banking operations, and investment strategies, applicable to both personal and organizational finance.
Students in this cluster develop a strong understanding of financial concepts such as cash flow, revenue generation, expense management, profit margins, and investment principles. While many finance careers typically require a college degree, CTE programs provide a valuable foundation that prepares students for further education or entry-level positions in the finance sector. Career paths in finance include financial analysts, accountants, budget analysts, and loan officers.
In the competitive finance industry, advanced degrees can enhance career advancement. However, CTE finance graduates gain practical experience and foundational knowledge that can enable them to enter the workforce directly, particularly by obtaining industry certifications. Certifications in areas like financial literacy and accounting software can demonstrate practical skills to potential employers. Regardless of their chosen path, students in the finance cluster develop crucial money management skills applicable to both their professional and personal lives.
5. Information Technology (IT)
Popular Careers: Network Administrator, Cybersecurity Analyst, Web Developer
Information Technology (IT) career technical programs delve into the application of digital networking, data management, information security, and the technologies that underpin the modern digital world. IT is a cornerstone of 21st-century infrastructure and business operations.
Starting with foundational courses like Principles of Information Technology, CTE students in the IT cluster learn about network infrastructure, server management, cybersecurity principles, software applications, and IT support. These programs prepare students for roles in network administration, cybersecurity, web development, database management, and IT support.
IT graduates enter one of the most dynamic and high-demand job markets globally. Industry certifications, such as CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), are highly valued in the IT field. These certifications, often pursued during or after CTE programs, validate students’ skills and enhance their employability in a rapidly evolving industry. A strong IT curriculum and hands-on training within CTE programs equip students with the skills and experience needed for long-term career success in this critical sector.
6. Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics (STEM)
Popular Careers: Mechanical Engineer Technician, CAD Technician, Software Developer
The Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) cluster encompasses interconnected disciplines that drive innovation and technological advancement across numerous industries. STEM is a cornerstone of modern economies and technological progress.
Occupations in engineering, design, computer science, and technical fields often require a strong STEM background. This has made STEM one of the most popular and rapidly growing CTE clusters, offering diverse job opportunities upon program completion. Career technical programs in STEM prepare students for roles as engineering technicians, computer-aided design (CAD) technicians, software developers, data scientists, and research assistants.
STEM graduates often command high earning potential, particularly with further education at the baccalaureate or advanced degree levels in specialized fields like engineering or computer science. However, numerous entry-level STEM positions are also available to CTE graduates with certifications and practical skills. Courses in Scientific Research and Design or Engineering Science within CTE programs can provide a competitive edge. Early exposure to these disciplines gives students a solid foundation for entering STEM careers directly after high school or for pursuing further education in STEM fields.
7. Manufacturing
Popular Careers: Production Manager, Quality Control Inspector, Industrial Mechanic
Manufacturing career technical programs focus on the processes, materials, and standardized protocols essential for mass production and industrial operations. Manufacturing remains a vital sector, driving global economies and producing essential goods.
CTE programs in manufacturing cover a wide range of topics, including production processes, materials science, quality control, industrial safety, and automation technologies. Students develop skills applicable to various manufacturing industries, from automotive and aerospace to consumer goods and food production. Career paths include production specialists, quality control inspectors, industrial mechanics, and manufacturing technicians.
While large-scale manufacturing has become increasingly globalized, many companies maintain manufacturing facilities within the United States and actively seek CTE graduates with specialized skills. Welding is a particularly high-demand manufacturing skill in the U.S., and CTE programs offering welding training are highly valuable. Knowledge of welding practices, techniques, and safety protocols are transferable across numerous industries. Regardless of the specific pathway, CTE manufacturing programs offer diverse career opportunities for skilled graduates.
8. Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics
Popular Careers: Automotive Technician, Logistics Coordinator, Supply Chain Manager
Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics career technical programs focus on the movement, storage, and tracking of goods and materials, encompassing the systems and vehicles that enable transit. This cluster is essential for the smooth functioning of supply chains and the global economy.
Professionals in this detail-oriented field often possess strong organizational skills and specialized knowledge in areas such as transportation modes, logistics planning, inventory management, and supply chain optimization. Career paths include automotive technicians, logistics coordinators, distribution managers, and transportation analysts.
The transportation cluster also includes automotive technology, encompassing the maintenance and repair of vehicles and transportation systems. CTE automotive programs prepare students to become skilled mechanics and technicians adept at diagnosing, servicing, and repairing vehicles, from cars to trucks. Industry certifications, such as the EETC Principles of Small Engine Technology certification, can enhance career prospects in specialized areas of transportation. CTE graduates in transportation, distribution, and logistics possess skills that are highly sought after across various industries and regions.
9. Hospitality and Tourism
Popular Careers: Hotel Manager, Event Planner, Chef
Hospitality and Tourism career technical programs equip students with the skills to manage businesses in the hospitality sector, including hotels, resorts, restaurants, event venues, and tourist attractions. This cluster is vital to the leisure, travel, and entertainment industries.
While tourism-heavy regions offer obvious opportunities, hospitality skills are transferable and valuable across the country. CTE programs in hospitality cover areas like hotel management, culinary arts, event planning, customer service, and tourism management. Graduates often have backgrounds in Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS), with coursework in hospitality services and culinary arts. Industry certifications in areas like professional communication and hospitality management can further enhance career prospects.
Hospitality and tourism careers offer flexibility and diverse work environments, appealing to students seeking varied schedules and locations. The hospitality industry consistently provides career opportunities for CTE graduates across a wide range of roles and locations.
10. Government & Public Administration
Popular Careers: City Manager, Urban Planner, Public Relations Manager
Government and Public Administration career technical programs focus on the organization and operation of government agencies, citizen engagement, and public service management. This cluster is crucial for effective governance and community development.
CTE programs in this cluster typically focus on local government operations, including areas like public finance, urban planning, community development, and public policy. Local governments play a vital role in citizens’ daily lives, and CTE graduates in this cluster contribute to effective municipal management. Career paths include city managers, urban planners, public administrators, and government relations specialists.
While some government positions are elected roles, many require skilled professionals in administration and management. Skills in professional communications and public speaking are valuable in this cluster. Experience in government and public administration provides students with unique skills in navigating public systems, managing projects, and serving communities.
11. Law, Public Safety, and Security
Popular Careers: Paralegal, Police Officer, Cybersecurity Specialist
Law, Public Safety, & Security career technical programs focus on legal occupations, law enforcement, emergency services, and security management. This cluster is essential for maintaining public order, safety, and justice.
This CTE cluster is known for providing stable and well-compensated career opportunities. It serves as a strong foundation for students interested in criminal justice, law enforcement, legal professions, and security careers. Career paths include paralegals, law enforcement officers, cybersecurity analysts, and emergency management specialists.
While many advanced roles in law and public safety require further education, CTE programs provide a solid entry point for various positions, including clerical and administrative roles within legal and law enforcement agencies. CTE can also provide a pathway to becoming a paralegal or legal assistant. This cluster offers a range of career options with good earning potential, even without advanced degrees, and serves as a launchpad for further education in law or criminal justice.
12. Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources
Popular Careers: Agricultural Technician, Environmental Scientist, Park Ranger
Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (AFNR) career technical programs educate students about the sustainable production and management of essential resources, including food, fiber, and natural resources. AFNR is fundamental to human survival and global sustainability.
CTE programs in AFNR cover diverse areas, including agricultural science, animal science, horticulture, natural resources management, and environmental science. Graduates pursue careers in farming, ranching, agricultural research, environmental conservation, and natural resources management. Career paths include agricultural inspectors, agronomists, wildlife managers, and environmental scientists.
Industry certifications are highly valued in the AFNR cluster, often offered by leading agricultural organizations. Examples include certifications in food safety, animal science, plant science, and natural resources management. The breadth of certifications reflects the diverse pathways within AFNR. This cluster offers meaningful careers with a direct impact on global food security and environmental sustainability.
13. Human Services
Popular Careers: Social Worker Assistant, Counselor, Cosmetologist
Human Services career technical programs focus on careers dedicated to meeting the needs of individuals and communities, particularly in areas of social welfare, personal care, and community support. This cluster is centered on helping people and improving quality of life.
Human services careers address a wide range of needs, including social work, counseling, rehabilitation services, and personal care. In some regions, special education may also fall under this cluster. The cluster also encompasses personal services like cosmetology and barbering, catering to personal care and aesthetics. Career paths include social worker assistants, counselors, community health workers, cosmetologists, and barbers.
While human services careers may sometimes offer lower salaries compared to other CTE clusters, they provide deeply rewarding opportunities to make a positive impact on individuals and communities. Demand for human services professionals remains high due to growing populations and increasing social needs. Individuals with a passion for helping others find fulfilling and impactful careers within human services.
14. Architecture and Construction
Popular Careers: Construction Manager, Architect Technician, Civil Engineering Technician
Architecture & Construction career technical programs teach students the principles of design, planning, and construction of buildings and infrastructure. This cluster is fundamental to building the physical environment we live in.
While CTE programs may not fully qualify graduates to become licensed architects immediately, they provide a strong foundation for working in architect offices or construction companies. Students in architecture programs learn design principles, building codes, and architectural drafting. Construction programs focus on building techniques, construction management, and trades skills. Career paths include construction managers, architect technicians, civil engineering technicians, and construction inspectors.
Students focusing on architecture may pursue further education leading to architecture degrees. Construction-focused students can enter the workforce directly after graduation, often in high-demand trades. Industry certifications in construction trades and construction management are valuable. The ongoing need for new construction and infrastructure projects ensures consistent career opportunities for CTE graduates in this cluster.
15. Education and Training
Popular Careers: Corporate Trainer, Instructional Designer, Teaching Assistant
Education and Training career technical programs develop expertise in learning processes and instructional methods, equipping students with the skills to teach and train others effectively. This cluster is vital for workforce development and knowledge transfer across industries.
While CTE programs in education and training may not fully qualify individuals to become certified K-12 teachers in all states, they provide a strong foundation for careers in training and development roles in various sectors. Career paths include corporate trainers, instructional designers, training specialists, and teaching assistants.
These programs focus on instructional design, training methodologies, communication skills, and assessment techniques. Graduates can find opportunities in diverse settings, from corporate training departments to educational institutions. Skills learned in this cluster are highly transferable and applicable wherever there is a need for effective teaching and training.
16. Arts, Audio-Visual Technology, and Communications
Popular Careers: Audio Engineer, Video Editor, Graphic Designer
The Arts, Audio-Visual Technology, and Communications cluster focuses on the technologies and skills involved in creating and delivering entertainment, media, and artistic expression. This cluster is at the forefront of the creative and media industries.
While some aspects may touch on artistic creation, the primary focus is on the technical skills required to produce and manage audio, visual, and communication technologies. CTE programs in this cluster cover areas like audio engineering, video production, graphic design, digital media, and broadcasting. Career paths include audio engineers, video editors, graphic designers, multimedia specialists, and broadcast technicians.
Skills in this cluster are essential for concerts, live events, film production, broadcasting, and digital media creation. As technology evolves, these skills remain in high demand to support the technical aspects of entertainment and communication. Graduates are prepared for careers in diverse settings, from entertainment venues to media companies and corporate communications departments.
Where are Career Technical Programs Offered?
Career technical programs are primarily offered in three educational settings: middle schools, high schools, and post-secondary institutions, including community colleges, technical schools, and universities. Regardless of the setting, CTE programs emphasize hands-on learning and the development of practical career skills.
The specific CTE clusters and pathways offered can vary significantly depending on the institution and location. Due to resource requirements, it is uncommon for a single school to offer all 16 career clusters. Post-secondary institutions, high schools, and middle schools often prioritize offering programs in high-demand industries, such as health science, information technology, and advanced manufacturing, or versatile fields like business and STEM.
Program availability can also be influenced by geographic location and local industry needs. Rural institutions may be more likely to offer agriculture programs, while urban areas might focus on technology or business programs. Demand for specific skills, such as welding or automotive technology, can also vary by region, impacting program offerings.
Despite variations, CTE program availability is widespread across the United States, making it accessible for most students to find programs aligned with their career interests.
Let’s examine how career technical programs are structured and delivered in each of these educational settings:
Career Technical Programs in Middle Schools
CTE in middle schools is typically offered as elective courses. Students can choose to participate in CTE programs, although some schools may integrate certain career exploration or workplace readiness elements into their core curriculum.
Middle school CTE programs often focus on developing foundational workplace skills, such as computer literacy, career exploration, and basic technical skills. Some middle schools may also offer introductory courses in specific CTE clusters like health science or agriculture to spark student interest and provide early exposure to different career fields. Career readiness courses are common in middle school, teaching transferable skills applicable across various career paths.
The primary goal of CTE in middle school is to introduce students to a range of career options and help them begin to identify potential areas of interest for further exploration in high school and beyond.
Career Technical Programs in High Schools
CTE in high schools is also primarily elective-based but offers a broader range of program options and greater depth of specialization. High school is a critical time for students to choose a career cluster and begin focused CTE coursework.
At the high school level, students typically pursue a sequence of courses within a chosen career cluster, such as business, health science, or STEM. These courses are often taught by instructors with industry experience, providing students with specialized, real-world insights. High school CTE programs often culminate in industry-recognized certifications by the time students graduate. These certifications validate students’ skills and signal their readiness to enter the workforce as industry professionals.
Certification processes and specific certifications vary by career cluster and industry. However, many CTE pathways lead to certifications offered by national governing bodies or leading industry organizations and corporations. Regardless of certification attainment, high school CTE programs are structured to ensure students are well-prepared for the next steps in their chosen careers, whether entering the workforce directly or pursuing further education.
Career Technical Programs in Post-Secondary Institutions
CTE in post-secondary institutions, such as community colleges and technical schools, typically involves focused study within a specific career cluster and pathway, leading to graduation and often industry certifications. Many graduates transition directly from these programs into their chosen careers.
Post-secondary CTE programs provide in-depth training, taking students from introductory concepts to job-ready skills. These programs often include internships or practical experiences that provide hands-on training with industry-standard tools, equipment, and scenarios.
While post-secondary CTE programs offer valuable career preparation, they often involve higher tuition costs compared to high school or middle school programs. Some post-secondary CTE institutions are for-profit colleges, which may have varying reputations regarding educational quality and career placement success.
Nevertheless, post-secondary CTE institutions offer a viable and often direct pathway to technical careers. They are a popular option for students entering higher education directly after high school, whether building upon prior CTE experience or starting their technical education journey.
Effective Teaching Methods for Career Technical Programs
While various teaching methods can be employed in CTE, blended learning approaches are often highly effective. Blended learning combines multiple instructional strategies to enhance student learning outcomes compared to relying on a single method.
Blended learning in CTE often incorporates a mix of strategies, including:
- Diverse Instructional Materials: Utilizing varied resources like textbooks, videos, online modules, and real-world examples.
- Technology Integration: Leveraging technology for interactive learning, simulations, skill practice, and assessment.
- Innovative Teaching Techniques: Employing active learning strategies, project-based learning, simulations, and real-world case studies.
- Traditional Methods: Maintaining effective traditional teaching approaches like lectures and demonstrations where appropriate.
- Varied Assessments: Utilizing diverse assessment methods beyond traditional tests, including performance-based assessments, portfolios, and projects.
- Collaborative Learning: Incorporating diverse group work styles and collaborative projects to foster teamwork and communication skills.
- Digital Curriculum Resources: Utilizing digital curriculum platforms to enhance content delivery, engagement, and personalized learning.
Implementing blended learning can initially seem complex, especially for instructors managing numerous responsibilities. A practical starting point for enhancing CTE instruction is focusing on improving student engagement. Maintaining student attention and active participation is crucial for effective learning and ensuring students are well-prepared for their future careers.
Enhancing Student Engagement in Career Technical Programs
Career and technical education is a dynamic and growing field offering exciting career prospects for students. Understanding what career technical programs are, the breadth of the 16 career clusters, and effective teaching approaches is essential for educators and students alike.
However, attracting students to CTE programs is only the first step. Sustaining their enthusiasm and engagement throughout their CTE journey is critical for their success. Student engagement is often a key challenge for CTE instructors.
To delve deeper into strategies for boosting student engagement in CTE classrooms, we invite you to download our free eBook: Boost Engagement in Your Classroom.
This eBook provides practical tips and techniques to help CTE instructors capture student attention, foster active learning, and ensure students are fully prepared for their future careers.
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