Hoosier State Today

U.S. Senator Todd Young from Indiana, along with several colleagues, has introduced and passed a resolution to recognize February as National Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month. This initiative highlights the significance of career and technical education in preparing students for various fields, including health care, agriculture, information technology, manufacturing, and skilled trades.

Senator Young emphasized the importance of CTE by stating, “Career and technical education equips Hoosier students with the skills and hands-on experiences necessary for a meaningful career.” He added that supporting workforce training is essential for preparing Americans for future jobs.

Currently, there are over eight million job openings nationwide, many within industries facing skilled labor shortages. More than 12 million students participate in CTE programs across high schools, career academies, CTE centers, and two-year colleges in the United States. These programs have been associated with improved attendance and higher graduation rates from high school.

The resolution aims to acknowledge the role of CTE and urges educators, counselors, career development professionals, and parents to promote it as a viable option for students.

Senator Young has consistently advocated for expanding access to job training through legislative efforts such as the Assisting Community Colleges in Educating Skilled Students (ACCESS) to Careers Act and the Gateways to Careers Act during the 118th Congress. He has also led the CTE Month resolution for several years.

Joining Senator Young in introducing this resolution were Senators Tammy Baldwin from Wisconsin, Ted Budd from North Carolina, Tim Kaine from Virginia, as well as Representatives Glenn Thompson from Pennsylvania's 15th district and Suzanne Bonamici from Oregon's 1st district. All are co-chairs of the Senate and House CTE caucuses.