Washington, D.C. – In an effort to promote the crucial role that career and technical education plays in enhancing America’s diversified workforce, Representatives Brian Baird (WA-03) and Phil English (PA-03) introduced a resolution, H.Res 930, last night to highlight Career and Technical Education (CTE) month this February. 

“It is imperative that Congress not only supports but stands behind Career and Technical Education programs that will prepare our workforce for the 20 fastest occupations identified by the U.S. Department of Labor,” said Congressman Baird.  “In 2006, I joined Congressman English in founding the CTE caucus in hopes of creating awareness about the increased need for career and tech programs that will better prepare and train America’s growing workforce.  The month of February will help call attention to the importance of these programs and help students realize the vast career opportunities that lie at their fingertips.”

As co-founders of the Career and Technical Education Caucus, Reps. Baird and English have diligently worked to ensure that students, educators, administrators and the general public understand the importance of improving CTE programs to ensure a competitive global economy. 

 “There is a growing demand for skilled workers in our country, and in order for American employers to remain competitive in today’s global market we must invest in our workforce and promote new programs and more education,” said English, co-chair of the Career and Technical Education Caucus.  “Today, I am honored to join Congressman Baird in introducing this resolution, which further demonstrates the federal government’s commitment to improving and enhancing career and technical education in our country.”

The Association for Career and Technical Education designated February as month-long opportunity to celebrate career and technical education across the country.  The Baird-English resolution not only supports the goals and ideals as presented by ACTE, but also recognizes the significance of training America’s workforce in technological education and encouraging educators and administrators to promote these CTE programs.

“With over 15 million students across the nation taking career and technical education classes, ACTE is pleased to see Representatives Baird and English introduce a resolution honoring February as CTE Month,” said Jan Bray, executive director of ACTE.

“Career and technical education provides the relevant knowledge and skills that engage all students and meets the needs of the workplace for a skilled, qualified and competitive workforce.  CTE Month represents an opportunity to educate communities on the importance of CTE to the economic growth of this country.”

Career and Technical Education month will include Annual National Job Shadow on the first Friday in February and the last week in February will be dedicated to the importance of entrepreneurship.

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