Superintendents' forum: Elevating future professionals and enhancing our workforce pipeline
By Dr. Michael Stauffer
Executive Director, Berks Career and Technology Center
Each February, as we celebrate Career and Technical Education Month, the nation's spotlight highlights the importance CTE programs bring to today's workforce. While the classroom provides the foundational knowledge and skills for future professionals, it is the hands-on, real-world experiences that are often highlighted at local, district, state, and national competitions that truly elevate students in their chosen fields.
Whether through organizations like SkillsUSA, Virtual Enterprises International, FFA, HOSA-Future Health Professionals or by earning the coveted CTE Presidential Scholar nomination, these opportunities provide outlets for CTE students to showcase their trade knowledge and skills.
Professional conferences and competitions are premier venues for students to apply classroom learning in tangible, high-pressure scenarios. From business, construction, floral design, robotics and cosmetology to physical therapy, CPR, EMT and dental science, participants demonstrate not only technical expertise but problem-solving, communication and time-management skills.
These challenges mirror the realities of the workplace, where unforeseen obstacles require quick thinking and collaboration. Through their participation in these high-stakes simulations, students develop resilience and composure. These qualities will undoubtedly serve them well in their chosen fields.
In addition to refining trade-specific skills, these competitions foster personal growth and bolster professional networks. Participants often meet peers from across the state or region, forming friendships and alliances that may open doors for future collaborations.
Just as significantly, industry professionals, potential employers and postsecondary institutions take note of standout contestants who demonstrate exceptional promise in their field. Impressions made in these arenas can lead to internships, scholarships and long-term career opportunities.
One of the highest honors in the CTE sphere is becoming a CTE Presidential Scholar nominee. This recognition is reserved for students who excel in technical and leadership skills, academic achievement and community engagement.
The Berks Career and Technology Center would like to congratulate Boyertown's Abigail Dawson, a student in our Video and Media Content Production program as Berks CTC's Presidential Scholar Nominee and one of only five across the commonwealth who received this honor and will advance to the national level. This prestigious distinction affirms that CTE students are innovators, critical thinkers and empathetic leaders. Earning or even pursuing this nomination signifies a commitment to lifelong learning and continuous improvement.
Above all, CTE conferences and competitions give students a dynamic platform to showcase their trade skills to a broader audience. They underscore the tangible benefits of hands-on education and prove technical knowledge is not just a steppingstone; it is a launchpad to a fulfilling and lucrative career.
During CTE Month, we are reminded that these future professionals are essential to our nation's economic vitality. By investing in the growth of CTC students and championing the competitions that test and refine their abilities, we ensure that the next generation of skilled workers and entrepreneurs is prepared, confident, and ready to lead.
For more information or to learn how you or a high school student you know can take advantage of these great resources, please contact the Berks Career and Technology Center at 610-374-4073 or the Reading/Muhlenberg Career and Technology Center at: 610-921-7300.
Building a house is among the skills students can learn at career and technology centers. (file photo)
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