Career and Technical Education (CTE)
Conducted by Dr. Jay Plasman of The Ohio State University and published by the Thomas B. Fordham Institute, this study examines the postsecondary and workforce outcomes of Ohio high school students who earn industry-recognized credentials. Using longitudinal education and labor market data, the report analyzes how credential attainment and CTE concentration relate to graduation, college enrollment, employment, and earnings over time.
Findings show that students who earn credentials often experience early workforce earnings gains and higher graduation rates, though they are less likely to pursue four-year degrees. The study also explores differences across credential types, career clusters, and high-demand workforce pathways, offering insights for policymakers seeking to strengthen alignment between education and labor market needs.
Findings show that students who earn credentials often experience early workforce earnings gains and higher graduation rates, though they are less likely to pursue four-year degrees. The study also explores differences across credential types, career clusters, and high-demand workforce pathways, offering insights for policymakers seeking to strengthen alignment between education and labor market needs.
Career exploration introduced early in a student’s academic career can improve career aspirations and long-term planning—a core belief behind P2C’s innovative curriculum.
The findings indicate that when career examples are embedded within core content, career exploration becomes a pervasive part of the student experience. Increased self-awareness and career awareness foster purpose and meaning, which in turn strengthen students’ self-direction and hope for the future.
The report also suggests that early career and skill development supports more cohesive curricula aligned with students’ postsecondary and career plans.
The findings indicate that when career examples are embedded within core content, career exploration becomes a pervasive part of the student experience. Increased self-awareness and career awareness foster purpose and meaning, which in turn strengthen students’ self-direction and hope for the future.
The report also suggests that early career and skill development supports more cohesive curricula aligned with students’ postsecondary and career plans.
Details outcomes for students in NYC CTE-dedicated high schools, showing links between CTE, engagement, credit accumulation, and diploma on-track status
Explores how Massachusetts has transformed vocational education into a rigorous, inclusive model that integrates career pathways with academic achievement
Explores how the Youth CareerConnect program improves attendance, credit gains, and readiness through career pathways and partnerships
Highlights how certificate and associate programs in fields like engineering and health offer fast, affordable paths to economic opportunity
This one-page outline from Education Commission of the States shows how ESSA and Perkins V offer federal funding streams to integrate STEAM education.
Analyzes the evolution from vocational education to CTE, emphasizing the need for inclusive practices and equitable opportunities in career preparation
Provides guidance on setting a statewide vision, using data to measure quality, and cultivating policy changes to support work-based learning
This Georgetown University study reveals the competencies, including skills like problem-solving and teamwork, that lead to higher earnings and job success.