Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are shaping workforce readiness worldwide.
With a growing demand for skilled workers in fields like health science, agriculture, and STEM, how are you preparing students to be the change-makers our world needs?
In this article, we’ll explore Cabarrus County Schools’ CTE programs, highlighting the strategies and approaches they use to build their cutting-edge programs including:
- Work-Based Learning Opportunities
- Program Recruitment
Team iCEV sat down with CTE leaders at Cabarrus County Schools, Melony Ritter and Kendra Glover for our virtual CTE Exchange session. During the session, Ritter and Glover shared an in-depth look at their districts extensive CTE programs and how they ensure success for their students, teachers and community.
After reading this blog you will gain actionable strategies and tactics Cabarrus County Schools use to implement or adapt into your own program.
Work-Based Learning
Work-based learning is a key component of career preparation in Cabarrus County. It helps students apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to real-world situations and gain a deeper understanding of their chosen career paths. Cabarrus County's’ robust work-based learning program features valuable opportunities including internships, job shadowing, and apprenticeships.
To ensure work-based learning program effectiveness Cabarrus County aligns these opportunities with career pathways and academies allowing for unmatched learning opportunities for students.
A general career pathway refers to a broader set of courses within a career cluster that provides a foundational understanding of a particular industry. A "career academy" is a more focused, structured program that deeply immerses students in a specific career field through specialized courses, industry partnerships and work-based learning opportunities.
“This alignment means students get relevant, hands-on experiences directly related to their coursework, ensuring they acquire in-demand skills and knowledge,"
- Melony Ritter, CTE Director
Another essential element of career prep at Cabarrus that goes hand-in-hand with work-based learning is focusing on industry-recognized credentials. These credentials demonstrate a student’s readiness for the workforce, giving them a competitive edge in job applications.
“In Cabarrus County, we provide numerous credentials across various career pathways and academies. We work closely with industry partners to ensure these credentials meet current standards and are valued by employers,” said Ritter.
Program Recruitment and Funding Strategies
Recruitment strategies are crucial for the success of today’s CTE programs. At Cabarrus County, events such as Futures Fair Day and Program Choice Roadshows play a significant role in attracting students and engaging the community.
These events are more than just opportunities for students to learn about CTE; they are key initiatives that bridge the gap between academic learning and career readiness.
Futures Fair Day and Program Choice Roadshows provide an opportunity for students and their families to explore a variety of career pathways, academies, and post-secondary opportunities. By connecting students with professionals, educators, and industry leaders, these events allow students to gain a clearer understanding of potential academic and career paths.
Hosting these types of events also makes CTE pathways more accessible by showcasing a wide range of opportunities. By organizing interactive demonstrations and discussion opportunities, students can engage with different career fields in a dynamic way. Events like these help to break down traditional perceptions of CTE as a "second choice" and highlights the wide variety of high-paying and fulfilling careers available through these programs.
In addition to these student-centered events, partnerships with local industries and community organizations further enhance the appeal and visibility of CTE programs. Collaborations with businesses, government agencies, and professional associations ensure that CTE programs remain aligned with the evolving needs of the local economy. These partnerships provide valuable resources, internships, mentorships, and job shadowing opportunities, offering students hands-on experience and direct exposure to potential employers.
Increasing the Impact of Your CTE Programs
Cabarrus County Schools’ approach to CTE sets a powerful example for how programs can equip students with the skills they need to succeed in today’s ever-evolving workforce.
Through the integration of work-based learning, strategic partnerships and program recruitment, Cabarrus has created a comprehensive framework that not only prepares students for their careers but aligns education with industry and the world's needs.
As Cabarrus County Schools continue to build on these successes, their commitment to sustainability, growth, and collaboration will undoubtedly make a lasting impact on both students and the communities they serve.
Interested in learning more about this cutting-edge CTE program’s unmatched approach to meeting the worlds need for CTE? Schedule your live demo today to start transforming your students passions into career callings with a comprehensive CTE solution.
