February 19, 2024 – February is National Career-Technical Education (CTE) Month, and it is an excellent time for Columbus City Schools (CCS) students to explore CTE programming as a future educational option!

“CTE is important because it gives students the ability to learn and use technical and soft skills related to the field they want to explore,” said Career-Technical Education Director Jennifer Meade. “Students that are enrolled in CTE programs develop life skills necessary for future careers, such as problem-solving, collaboration, and how to be respectful of others.”

Columbus City Schools offers 40 career pathway programs for junior and senior high school students. Pathway programs allow students to earn certificates and hands-on experience.

“CTE helps students be career and college-ready,” Meade said. “Many industry credentials and CTE courses lead to college credit, and students can either enter the workforce or continue their career pathway through coursework in college. This way, they can choose the path for graduation that is best for them.” 

Over 50 percent of Ohio CTE students attend college to enhance their career choices. By allowing CTE students to earn up to 14 college credits, CTE provides students with an edge if they are interested in enrolling at a college or university. 

During the fall of their tenth-grade year, students tour Fort Hayes Career Center and Columbus Downtown High School to see what careers and pathways spark their interest.

Sophomore students who want to learn more about the CCS CTE programs can follow this link.