To shine a spotlight on the power of hands-on learning that prepares Michiganders for in-demand, good-paying careers, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer joins the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) and the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) in proclaiming February as Career and Technical Education Month.

With nearly 500,000 job openings projected in Michigan each year through 2032, Career and Technical Education (CTE) offers high school and college students hands-on learning experiences that can be applied to real-world training and career pathways. Throughout the month of February, individuals of all ages, including students and those seeking new career opportunities, are encouraged to explore programs that prepare them for successful career entry, advancement and/or continuing education.

“Career and Technical Education programs offer Michiganders tangible skills they can use to land good-paying, in-demand jobs in growing fields and trades like plumbing, welding, and more,” said Governor Whitmer. “I’m proud of the progress we’ve made through ongoing investments in Career and Technical Education and the Going PRO Talent fund, as well as our efforts to create 23,000 apprenticeships. But we’re just getting started. This Career and Technical Education Month, let’s keep working together to create opportunity, grow our economy, and help more people ‘make it’ in Michigan.”

High schools, colleges and some universities across Michigan offer CTE programs that are aligned with in-demand, high-wage careers in fields such as business, information technology, healthcare, hospitality and manufacturing. Most high school programs also offer early college credit opportunities to provide a seamless transition to postsecondary education.

“Career and Technical Education programs offer great benefits for people and our economy,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin. “When people can learn practical skills, earn a living, and stay rooted in their communities, our entire state benefits.”

Students enrolled in state-approved CTE programs have a high school graduation rate of about 96 percent, nearly 14 percent higher than the state’s overall rate. They learn practical skills that help them get a job, move up in their career or continue their education in fields that are hiring and pay well. During the 2024-25 school year, CTE enrollment hit a high of 114,997 secondary students, greater than the pre-pandemic level by about 11 percent. Completers during the 2024-25 school year hit a record-breaking 55,444 students, with about a 14 percent increase over the last three years.

Michigan also offers Early Middle Colleges (EMCs), an MDE approved five-year program of study, who work closely with post-secondary partners to provide students with an opportunity to earn a high school diploma and one or more of the following: 60 transferable college credits, an associate degree, a professional certification, the Michigan Early Middle College Association technical certificate and/or participation in a Registered Apprenticeship.

“With CTE programs, Michigan schools put students first by preparing them for high-wage and high-skills careers or postsecondary education,” said State Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko. “During the last three years, the number of CTE completers has increased by almost 10,800 students, or 24 percent, to more than 55,000 students, the highest number in Michigan history. CTE contributes to several goals in Michigan’s Top 10 Strategic Education Plan – including expanding secondary learning opportunities for all students, increasing the percentage of all students who graduate from high school and increasing the percentage of adults with a postsecondary credential.”

Michigan's postsecondary institutions awarded 15,308 industry recognized credentials across 1,523 unique CTE programs leading to a certificate or associate degree. During the 2024-2025 school year, 122,751 students were enrolled in postsecondary CTE programs across the state.

“Michiganders who participate in Career and Technical Education programs are more engaged, earn degrees and industry-recognized credentials, and have careers that are both rewarding and self-sustaining,” said LEO Workforce Development Director Krista Johnson. “That’s why we’re working hard to ensure all students are aware of, and have access to, CTE opportunities.”

Several events and activities will be held throughout the state in celebration of CTE Month. A list of events is available on MDE’s CTE Month website.

Students, parents, educators and others interested in exploring career options, training, wages and projected openings should visit Michigan’s free online career exploration tool, Pathfinder. Additional CTE resources and information may be found on MDE’s website and LEO’s website.

Also check out MISchoolData.org, the State of Michigan’s official source for pre-K, K-12, postsecondary and workforce data to help residents, educators and policymakers make informed decisions to improve student success.