Op-ed: February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month

By Ryan Huseby
Tomahawk High School Principal

At Tomahawk High School (THS), we proudly offer a variety of career pathways to students. Pathways specialized in career fields such as Business, Marketing, Architecture and Construction, Culinary Arts, Engineering, Entrepreneurship, Graphic Design, Healthcare, Information Technology, Manufacturing, Education and Training, and Transportation Technology.

Over 38 Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses are available to students. Additionally, students also have access to complete advanced training, college credits, industry certifications and work based learning programs through the career pathways.

THS students have a unique opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school. Through CTE courses, students can currently accumulate more than 53 college credits, a number that continues to grow each year as we build our CTE programming. Our dual credit courses provide students a head start with their post graduation plan, helping them build career-ready skills and save both time and money. Those entering the workforce immediately benefit from advanced training, setting them apart from other entry-level candidates and increasing their career mobility. Students pursuing university or technical college education may also reduce their tuition costs by successfully completing dual credit courses.

Notably, THS students surpass the state average in dual credit course completion, with 56.6% of our students participating compared to the state average of 25.7%. THS had 409 dual credit course enrollments in the 2023-24 school year.

Students also take advantage of the opportunity and earn industry-recognized certifications in fields such as computer programs, OSHA Safety, Culinary ServSafe, health and child care, welding, automotive safety, Microsoft Office, computer aided design, Adobe Design Suite, Certified Nursing Assistant, Fire Fighter 1 and Youth Apprenticeship. These certifications showcase skills valued by employers.

THS students exceeded the state average for students earning at least one industry certification. Students earned 144 certifications in the 2023-24 school year. According to the Association for Career and Technical Education, such certifications aid in hiring, retention, and career advancement while also preparing students for postsecondary education and the workforce.

Work-Based Learning (WBL) programs are a great environment for students to gain industry-specific and employability skills under the direct mentorship of a professional. One such program, Youth Apprenticeship (YA), is sponsored by the Department of Workforce Development and mirrors adult apprenticeships. YA students are paid employees, working at least 450 hours during the school year while completing job-related coursework for high school credit. Students work with employers to complete the required job specific skills certification list during their employment. With over 43 participants in 2023-24 school year, THS has one of the highest YA enrollments in the area and exceeds the state participation average.

To celebrate CTE Month, THS is hosting a Guest Speaker Blitz, featuring professionals from a variety of industries who will share insights about their career paths. These sessions provide a valuable opportunity for students to gain firsthand knowledge about different professions and the steps required to be successful. Presentations will be held in various CTE classes and during Resource Hour. THS students interested in attending should connect with their CTE teacher or school counselor for more details.

We encourage families to have career conversations with their students. Share your professional journey – discuss what has been important to you in your career, the challenges you’ve faced and what you might do differently to reach your goals. These discussions can provide valuable lessons and inspire students as they navigate their Academic and Career Planning decisions.

Let’s make the most of CTE Month by exploring opportunities and preparing for a bright future!