Thompson co-sponsors measure recognizing technical education
February 27, 2020
U.S. Rep. Glenn Thompson, who co-chairs the Congressional Career and Technical Education (CTE) Caucus, on Wednesday co-introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing National CTE Month, which is observed every February.
U.S. Rep. Jim Langevin, a Democrat from Rhode Island, also is a co-sponsor.
"Career and technical education is helping close our nation's skills gap, strengthen the American workforce and empower learners of all ages," Thompson, R-15th District, said in a congressional news release. "Every February, we're reminded of the valuable contributions of CTE students and educators."
According to the release, CTE prepares students for careers in fields such as health care, information technology and the skilled trades. There are more than 7 million job openings nationally, and many are within industries with skilled labor shortages.
By 2026, health care occupations alone are projected to grow by 18%, adding more than 2 million jobs nationwide, according to the release. It is also projected 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, the release said.