February 1, 2022

CARSON CITY, Nev. – the Nevada Department of Education recognizes February as Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month. Proclaimed by governor Sisolak and designated by the Association for Career and Technical Education, the month recognizes the positive impacts of CTE programs on Nevada’s students and workforce.

“Throughout Nevada, Career and Technical Education programs are delivering real results, giving our economy a competitive edge, and preparing our learners for high-skill, high-wage, and in-demand careers in Nevada,” said Jhone Ebert, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. “It is our priority to ensure each and every child has equitable access to CTE opportunities, as students who engage in these programs are proven to be more engaged, earn industry-recognized credentials, and have careers that are both rewarding and family-sustaining.”

“Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, Nevada was experiencing a skills gap with 51% of jobs requiring specialized skills training, and only 48% of Nevada workers trained at this level,” said Governor Steve Sisolak. “Through CTE programs and innovative partnerships with our business community, we can help to fill these gaps and ensure that our students and economy thrive well into the future. I commend Superintendent Ebert, the Nevada Department of Education, CTE educators, and everyone involved for their leadership and vision in bringing these programs to life.”

Some facts and statistics related to CTE in Nevada include:

Nevada has CTE strands in all 16 National Career Clusters available to students throughout the State, with innovative programs of study in healthcare, information technology, advanced manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and more.

Students who participate in CTE programs experience higher graduation rates than their peers, with a 91.72% graduation rate for CTE students in the Class of 2021, compared to an 81.31% Statewide average graduation rate.

This 2021-22 school year, 76,035 high school students and 2,284 middle school students are enrolled in CTE programs of study or middle school courses. Highschool enrollment for the school year 2021-22 represents a 4.76% increase from the 2020-21 school year.

Throughout CTE Month, designated weeks focus on specific trades, including:

• SkillsUSA Week, February 7–11
• Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Week, February 13–19
• Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) Week, February 14–18
• Future Farmers of America (FFA) Week, February 19–26
• National Society Professional Engineers (NSEP) Engineers Week, February 20–26

There are several opportunities throughout February for Nevada educators, students, parents, and families to celebrate CTE month, including the following:

Access Resources and Industry Chats from Nepris for Nevada

Visit Nepris for Nevada to find opportunities to easily connect industry professionals directly with Nevada’s students. Through Nepris, educators and students can participate in industry chats, access recorded sessions and on-demand training, and invite industry professionals into their classrooms for real-world learning opportunities. In honor of CTE Month, Nepris is offering a special series of Industry Chats throughout February, available free for all educators and students in grades 6-12.

Discover Career Paths in Nevada with Road trip Nation’s Career Exploration Tool and “All-In” Documentary

Road trip Nation, a nonprofit focused on storytelling in education, has launched their All-In Documentary, following three young adults as they travel across Nevada to discover industries and opportunities available Statewide. Educators and students can follow along with the Road trip Nation Viewing Guide and find even more opportunities with their Career Exploration Tool.

Visit the NDE website to learn more about Career and Technical Education (CTE) in Nevada.

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About the Nevada Department of Education

The Nevada Department of Education (NDE) leads and collaborates with Nevada’s 17 school districts and the State Public Charter School Authority to advance educational equity Statewide. With offices in Carson City and Las Vegas, NDE oversees all pre-K-12 education in the State, working to achieve its mission to improve student achievement and educator effectiveness by ensuring opportunities, facilitating learning, and promoting excellence. Under the leadership of the State Board of Education and the Superintendent of Public Instruction, NDE impacts the achievement of nearly half a million children and 30,000 educators.