Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) involves integrated relationships between academic education and specific career opportunities. CTAE offers lifelong learning experiences through a variety of Career Pathways. These pathways are state-approved career enhancement programs that, combined with the recommended academic course work, will prepare students to continue their education at any level or enter the world of work. The Career Pathways concept provides focus and a personal plan for EVERY student that involves parents, counselors and teachers in the process. In addition to selecting a Career Pathway, students are encouraged to participate in work-based learning. Work-based learning opportunities are available through individual job shadowing, internships, co-op, or through the formal Youth Apprenticeship program.

Preparing young people to participate in our economy is a critical challenge. We must equip students with a broad range of skills to enable them to succeed in their future careers. Students must acquire a sophisticated grasp of technology and its applications in the real world. They must learn to communicate effectively and develop the ability to master new skills and find creative solutions to problems. Most importantly, they must learn to continue to learn -- in post-secondary education, in their careers, and throughout life.