A brief explanation of "CTE Pathways"
Created:
Futures Research projects frequently explore the possible and desired futures of CTE Pathways, so we thought a brief explanation of the term might be useful.
Career & Technical Education (CTE) Pathways provide students with the knowledge, skills, and experience they need to be prepared for a variety of career options (see below). Pathways have multiple start- and end-points. The structure and function of a CTE Pathway is varied; however, there are three core components:
- Students - people seeking training
- Programs - people providing training
- Employers - people hiring trained workers
The concept of CTE is not new; however, the formalization and optimization of CTE Pathways by secondary and post-secondary institutions is somewhat new and rapidly becoming more popular.
Below is a CTE Pathways classification framework Futures Research uses to organize research projects, data, and emerging concepts.
- Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources
Equips students with hands-on skills in farming, animal science, and resource management. From crop cultivation to sustainable practices, students gain expertise for careers in agribusiness, environmental conservation, and food production, meeting the demands of a dynamic and essential industry. - Architecture & Construction
Empowers students with practical skills in design, construction, and project management. From architectural drafting to sustainable building practices, students acquire expertise for careers in architecture, carpentry, and civil engineering, playing a pivotal role in shaping the built environment. - Arts, A/V Technology & Communications
Guides students in developing creative and technical skills. From graphic design to multimedia production, students gain expertise for careers in visual arts, broadcasting, and digital media, contributing to the dynamic fields of entertainment, communication, and artistic expression. - Business, Management & Administration
Equips students with essential skills for success in the corporate world. From entrepreneurship to organizational leadership, students gain expertise in areas like finance, marketing, and project management, preparing them for diverse careers in business, administration, and strategic management. - Education & Training
Prepares students for impactful careers in teaching and instructional design. From classroom management to curriculum development, students acquire practical skills and knowledge, fostering their ability to inspire and educate others. This pathway shapes dedicated professionals ready to meet the evolving needs of the education sector. - Finance
Equips students with essential skills for navigating the world of finance. From financial planning to investment strategies, students gain expertise in managing economic resources. This pathway prepares individuals for diverse careers in banking, financial analysis, and accounting, contributing to the stability of global economies. - Government & Public Administration
Empowers students for impactful roles in civic service. From policy analysis to public management, students gain practical skills in governance. This pathway prepares individuals for careers in public administration, law enforcement, and policy-making, contributing to the effective functioning of government institutions. - Health Science
Prepares students for diverse roles in the healthcare industry. From patient care to medical research, students acquire hands-on skills and medical knowledge. This pathway equips individuals for careers in nursing, diagnostics, and public health, addressing the evolving needs of the healthcare sector. - Hospitality & Tourism
Empowers students with practical skills for success in the dynamic hospitality industry. From event planning to hotel management, students gain expertise in customer service and business operations. This pathway prepares individuals for careers in hospitality, tourism, and culinary arts, shaping the future of travel and entertainment. - Human Services
Guides students to make a positive impact on individuals and communities. From counseling to social work, students develop practical skills in supporting diverse needs. This pathway prepares individuals for careers in human services, mental health, and social advocacy, fostering compassionate professionals for societal well-being. - Information Technology
Equips students with essential skills for thriving in the digital age. From programming to cybersecurity, students gain expertise in technology solutions. This pathway prepares individuals for careers in software development, network administration, and IT management, driving innovation across industries in our tech-driven world. - Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security
Prepares students for vital roles in maintaining public safety and upholding justice. From criminal justice to emergency management, students gain practical skills. This pathway guides individuals towards careers in law enforcement, legal services, and security, contributing to a secure society. - Manufacturing
Empowers students with hands-on skills for success in the dynamic world of production. From precision machining to quality control, students gain expertise in manufacturing processes. This pathway prepares individuals for careers in engineering, production management, and advanced manufacturing, driving innovation in the industry. - Marketing
Equips students with strategic skills to thrive in the dynamic world of commerce. From market research to brand management, students gain expertise in creating effective campaigns. This pathway prepares individuals for careers in advertising, digital marketing, and product management, shaping the future of business promotion. - Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Empowers students with critical skills for innovation and problem-solving. From computer programming to engineering design, students gain expertise in STEM fields. This pathway prepares individuals for careers in technology, research, and scientific exploration, driving progress in diverse industries. - Transportation, Distribution & Logistics
Equips students with practical skills for success in the dynamic world of supply chain and transportation. From logistics management to automotive technology, students gain expertise. This pathway prepares individuals for careers in warehousing, transportation management, and logistics, driving efficiency in global trade.