Thompson, Bonamici Lead Resolution Recognizing Career and Technical Education Month

U.S. Representatives Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) and Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) along with Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ted Budd (R-NC), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Todd Young (R-IN), co-chairs of the bipartisan, bicameral Congressional Career and Technical Education (CTE) Caucus, today introduced a resolution recognizing National CTE Month, which is observed every February.

“Career and technical education has shown to be a proven path for secondary students, adult learners, and anyone who values attaining a skill that will land a well-paying, in-demand career," said Rep. Thompson. "CTE equips students with the skills and expertise required to be competitive in our modern workforce. These jobs help narrow the skills gap, enhance the American economy, and help individuals achieve their greatest potential. This February, with this resolution, we recognize the role CTE plays in our country and the contributions made by CTE professionals and educators.”  
  
“Career and Technical Education benefits all students, regardless of what path they take in life," said Rep. Bonamici. "CTE programs help keep students engaged in class and research shows that CTE students graduate high school at higher rates than their peers. I’m pleased to join my CTE Caucus co-chair Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson to recognize the importance of CTE for student success and workforce readiness.”

“Career and Technical Education gets people in the pipeline to good-paying jobs right out of high school and ensures businesses have the workers they need to move our Made in Wisconsin economy forward," said Senator Baldwin. "I’m committed to supporting CTE students so that they are ready to land the high-skilled jobs that will power our economy for the next generation.”

“One of my top priorities is creating flexible educational paths to good-paying, in-demand jobs for North Carolinians," said Senator Budd. "Supporting career and technical education is key to achieving this and securing prosperity for generations of Americans to come.”

“Between being the son of an ironworker and spending time working at a technical school in Honduras, I have seen firsthand how technical education can provide a pathway to a steady career, good-paying jobs, and economic stability,” said Senator Kaine. “That’s why I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing a resolution to designate February 2025 as Career and Technical Education month. Whether it’s through this resolution or through other legislation like the JOBS Act, I will always be an advocate for access to CTE and the world of possibilities it unlocks.”

“Career and technical education equips Hoosier students with the skills and hands-on experiences necessary for a meaningful career," said Senator Young. "Supporting workforce training is vital for preparing Americans for the jobs of tomorrow.” 
 
CTE prepares students for careers in fields such as health care, agriculture, information technology, manufacturing, the skilled trades, and many more. There are more than 8 million job openings nationwide today, many are within industries with noted skilled labor shortages. More than 12 million students are enrolled in CTE programs at high schools, career academies, CTE centers, and two-year colleges across the country. Participation in CTE programs has been linked to better attendance and higher high school graduation rates. The resolution recognizes the importance of CTE and encourages educators, counselors, career development professionals, and parents to promote CTE as an option for students.

 

“We are thrilled to support the bipartisan, bicameral 2025 Career Technical Education Month Resolution, reflecting a national and shared commitment to high-quality skills, credentials of value, and meaningful work-based learning. The broad support for this resolution strengthens our network of state CTE leaders and highlights the vital link between education and economic development,” said Kate Kreamer, Executive Director of Advance CTE.

 
“ACTE is proud to endorse the bipartisan 2025 Career Technical Education Month Resolution. CTE plays a critical role in connecting learners to high-wage, in-demand careers and opportunities that uplift the workforce and economy. CTE Month recognizes the hard work and meaningful commitment of CTE students, faculty and administrators while highlighting the need for continued, robust investment in these programs. ACTE is grateful to the House and Senate CTE Caucuses for their support and dedication to CTE," said LeAnn Curry, ACTE Executive Director.