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Preparing for Federal Policy Shifts in the CTE Ecosystem

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As we approach 2025, significant changes to federal funding models for Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Professional/Technical (ProfTech) programs are likely on the horizon. These changes could impact funding allocation, eligibility, and the strategic priorities that drive grant awards. While some analysts predict continued federal support, they also anticipate shifts in requirements, qualifications, and desired outcomes. 

For K-12, post-secondary, and partner organizations, anticipating these changes is essential. Likely areas of transformation include: 

  • Funding Priorities: A shift in focus regarding industries, skill areas, or populations receiving funding.
  • Eligibility: New criteria for who can apply for and receive federal funding.
  • Strategic Goals: Changes in which outcomes—equity, employability, or innovation—could be emphasized.
  • Award Criteria: Adjustments to the metrics and evidence used to determine funding recipients. 

To remain competitive and aligned with new policy expectations, CTE programs must adopt forward-thinking strategies and strengthen their ability to respond quickly to changes. Consider the following approaches:

  • Deepen Industry Engagement: Shift from a passive to an active partnership model. CTE programs should strive to embed themselves in the operations of industry partners, such as joining the boards of these organizations, rather than relying solely on industry members to participate in CTE program boards.
  • Take Programming Off-Campus: Create more opportunities for collaboration by organizing meetings, events, and training activities at employer and community partner locations. This approach can enhance relationships and keep programs aligned with real-world needs.
  • Streamline Institutional Processes: Enhance agility in areas such as contracting, curriculum development, internships, and grant participation. For example, institutions should consider taking on supporting roles in grant proposals to maximize collaboration opportunities and ensure responsiveness to external demands.
  • Build a Data-Driven Culture: Identify the types of data needed to demonstrate the impact and value of your programs effectively. Develop processes to collect, analyze, and apply this data in grant applications and ongoing program improvement efforts. Where possible, embed data collection into grant-funded activities to ensure continuous evaluation and reporting capacity. 

Adapting to these potential shifts will require not only new strategies but also a cultural shift toward innovation and responsiveness. Leaders in the CTE and ProfTech ecosystems must prioritize collaboration, rethink traditional approaches, and build capacity for change to thrive in this evolving landscape.