NCCE 25 at the Seattle Convention Center on February 26-28 is shaping up to be an unmissable event for educators and industry professionals. One of the most exciting programs for many high school educators and administrators will be the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Summit. This half-day session, “CTE Works! Integrating Industry and Education for Tomorrow’s Workforce,” offers an expansive look at the CTE field.
This particular session is very timely. Recent research indicates that many high school students are not particularly enthralled with the idea of pursuing traditional four-year college degrees; yet, they still want to engage in challenging, interesting careers with good income potential. Robust CTE programs in secondary schools are increasingly recognized as an essential element in preparing students for entering the workforce and earning their future livelihoods.
What Makes CTE So Important?
Career and Technical Education has long been a cornerstone of vocational training, but its role has expanded in modern education. One reason for the expansion is that several industries – notably the medical field and trades – are having difficulty filling positions with qualified personnel. This opens the door to more opportunities for students with CTE training.
CTE programs are designed to provide students with both academic knowledge and technical skills needed to succeed in specific industries ranging from healthcare and information technology to advanced manufacturing and the trades. By aligning education offerings with industry needs, CTE ensures that students are not only ready for their first job out of school but are also equipped for lifelong career success.
Although many CTE programs primarily prepare students for pursuing professional degrees in college, others can give students a good foundation in career fields that may only require certification. CTE classes can provide a viable path to a successful career that will enable students to avoid accruing educational debt and to obtain entry-level positions in their chosen fields right out of high school, with the opportunity to continue their education as necessary or desirable.
CTE programs offer practical educational alternatives, allowing students to gain hands-on experience and industry-recognized certifications while still in high school or college, significantly reducing the time and cost of obtaining a degree. Moreover, CTE programs often collaborate with local businesses and industry leaders, providing students with direct access to internships, apprenticeships, and job placements.
Meet the Experts
The CTE Summit at NCCE 25 will feature two highly respected figures in the field who have dedicated their careers to advancing CTE and preparing students for the workforce.
Kathie O’Brien has a rich history as a CTE instructor and faculty advisor. Her work at various community colleges has centered on coordinating technology programs and learning centers and designing courses catering to a diverse student body. Kathie’s efforts in promoting CTE as a vital pathway to careers and higher education have earned her numerous accolades, including the Idaho Postsecondary Exemplary Program Award. Her session at the summit will cover some of the strategies she has developed for increasing student success and engagement in CTE programs, making her a must-see speaker for anyone involved in CTE education.
Kelly Williams brings a different but equally valuable perspective. With a background in educational technology, Kelly has worked extensively on integrating digital tools into CTE curricula. Her involvement with Business Professionals of America and her role in developing online courses highlight her commitment to ensuring that CTE programs meet the changing needs of both students and employers. Kelly’s session can provide attendees with practical insights into how technology can be leveraged to enhance CTE programs and better prepare students for the demands of a digital workforce.
Join Us at NCCE 25!
The CTE Summit at NCCE 2025 is an opportunity to gain actionable insights into how schools and educators can better align their programs with local industry demands, giving their students an advantage in starting their careers right out of school. In addition, the summit offers CTE educators and school administrators a chance to network with other professionals passionate about CTE and workforce development. Whether you want your school to enhance its current programs or seek inspiration for new initiatives, the CTE Summit at NCCE 25 will prove invaluable.
Take advantage of this opportunity to shape the future of education and career readiness. Register for NCCE 25 today and secure your spot at the CTE Summit and all the other programs that NCCE 25 has to offer. We look forward to seeing you there!