Career and Technical Education Caucus Co-Chairman Rep.Thompson Discusses Importance of National CTE Month

Twitter: Video: Recognizing contributions #CTE#education programs make to the America’s economic competitiveness: https://t.co/Q0JJGHcUoQ#jobs — Glenn 'GT' Thompson (@CongressmanGT) February 26, 2014

Remarks:

"Mr. Speaker, I rise as Co-Chairman of the bipartisan Career and Technical Education Caucus, to recognize National Career and Technical Education Month, celebrated each February.

National CTE Month recognizes the contributions that career and technical education programs make to the American economy along with the important work being done by CTE professionals and teachers.

In today’s competitive job market, high-paying, high-demand jobs require technical skills and training. CTE programs have been historically under-utilized yet – in an era of record high unemployment – these programs are the key to bridging the skills gap.

CTE Month is also a time for policymakers to ask: Are we doing enough to ensure individuals have the skills that will lead to a family sustaining job? I know my fellow colleagues in the Career & Technical Education Caucus share these concerns.

I was pleased to learn that Senators Rob Portman of Ohio and Tim Kaine of Virginia have followed suit and organized the Senate CTE Caucus. I look forward to working with them and my House co-chairman Mr. Langevin of Rhode Island, as we continue to promote American competitiveness through CTE programs.

I yield back."