As technology transforms the job market, creating new jobs and reshaping industry, it’s crucial that educational programs equip students with marketable skills.
Career and technical education (CTE) programs are instrumental in preparing students for skilled technical careers, offering a pathway to employment. Because CTE addresses the talent needs of high-growth, in-demand industries, students who complete these programs are rewarded with access to abundant career opportunities.
Why CTE for Advanced Manufacturing?
CTE addresses many career paths and we (Intelitek) are focused on the advanced manufacturing cluster. Manufacturing encompasses many areas including industrial automation, logistics, robotics and engineering. In today’s world, these are areas that are developing rapidly and areas that offer significant employment and lifelong career opportunities.
As technology progresses, industry has expanded and developed to more effectively utilize technology as a tool. Referred to as Industry 4.0, this modern state of industry is a game changer for manufacturing.
While industry has stepped up systematically and technologically, businesses still face the hurdle of procuring trained and skilled workers. This is partially due to the fact that the skills required to effectively perform Industry 4.0 jobs are not typically addressed in traditional schools.
This is where CTE for advanced manufacturing comes in. CTE programs prepare students for the next generation of manufacturing and industry, equipping them with multi-disciplinary skills for technical careers.
Advanced manufacturing education provides students with training and hands-on experience in various technical career fields, including manufacturing, information technology, robotics, and even healthcare. These practical skills and knowledge are directly applicable in the workplace, making these programs an efficient pathway to employment in skilled technical careers.
How CTE Education Benefits Industry 4.0
Industry 4.0 has changed the face of manufacturing, creating economic opportunity. As one of the main sources of skilled labor, CTE programs for advanced manufacturing can help meet the employment needs of businesses that have upgraded to Industry 4.0.
By collaborating with businesses and industry partners, Intelitek delivers state-of-the-art training solutions for Industry 4.0. This ensures that students acquire the relevant skills and certifications needed to succeed in skilled technical careers, supporting industry needs and driving economic growth.
A Pathway to Reliable Employment
CTE programs for advanced manufacturing provide direct pathways to employment in skilled technical careers. Graduates of CTE programs often find themselves positioned to secure jobs quickly upon graduating, in positions that typically offer competitive salaries and benefits.
Many skilled technical careers boast average annual wages notably higher than the national average for all jobs. Additionally, the jobs CTE graduates seek are typically full-time and long term, offering substantial benefits packages including health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans.
In addition to financial stability, careers in technical fields are more resistant to economic downturns. This is because many skilled trades and technical positions are in constant demand, regardless of broader economic conditions. As a result, those who pursue skilled technical careers benefit from a higher level of job security.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Equipped with real-world skills and knowledge and with industrial credentials that go with these programs, professionals who pursue skilled technical careers have the potential for many career advancement opportunities.
With the right training and with training in employment skills like teamwork, communication and management, advanced manufacturing graduates have clear pathways to receive increased salaries and more senior roles.
Guiding Students Down the Pathway to Skilled Technical Careers
Successful CTE programs for advanced manufacturing provide students with a high-quality education that is accessible and connects them to real-world opportunity. This can be attained through a multifaceted approach, which includes:
- Strong industry partnerships: CTE programs can remain relevant and up-to-date through partnerships with industry leaders and technology providers.
- Skilled instructors: Skilled educators are well-trained and utilize best practices to unlock students’ potential, equipping them with the relevant skills and knowledge to succeed in technical careers.
- Comprehensive, highly-developed curriculum: A comprehensive CTE curriculum includes technical skills, industry knowledge, and hands-on learning and practice.
- Student support: Helping students navigate their educational options is crucial to ensuring learners choose the right career pathway.
- Industry certifications: Because technical career fields are rapidly growing and changing, industry certification programs bridge the gap in knowledge, skills, and experience to ensure incoming career professionals can quickly, seamlessly, and effectively enter the workforce.
CTE presents a reliable pathway for students to pursue skilled technical careers. Through CTE programs for advanced manufacturing, students are equipped with rich skill sets, knowledge, and hands-on experience that prepare them for real-world technical jobs. Moreover, these competencies help individuals secure dependable work and income, laying a foundation for long-term career development and advancement.
