Five questions about Career and Technical Education (CTE) with Cesar and Camara 

1. Why is Career and Technical Education so important? 

Career and Technical Education is important because it provides relevant training and education for jobs that meet the current needs of employers in a variety of industries. With programs that typically vary in length from one quarter up to two years, CTE offers an accelerated pathway focused on a streamlined entry into the workforce with a living wage. This allows students to save time and money while acquiring the academic and technical skills needed for a specific industry. Additionally, CTE offers students a more hands-on alternative to traditional college coursework for those whose learning styles better align with this teaching model. 

2. How has the Career and Technical Scholarship adapted to better support CTE students? 

In addition to STEM and health care, programs in trades are also eligible for the Career and Technical Scholarship at all 34 community and technical colleges (CTCs) in Washington. We’ve also made this scholarship more accessible by offering three application cycles for fall, winter and spring quarters, with the option of requesting funding for summer. Because CTE programs vary by credential type and length, the funds are awarded for the duration of the Scholar’s program.  

New this year is the CTS Scholar Lead Program, which provides Scholars with a student leadership role where they serve as peer mentors for other Scholars in their college or region. As CTS Scholar Leads, they help build community and assist with WSOS and campus and community resource navigation for CTS Scholars at their schools. 

3. What would you like people to know about Career and Technical Education? 

An overwhelming majority of Career and Technical Scholars identify as first-generation students (83% of Cohort 2) and are 23 years and older (79% of Cohort 2). Furthermore, almost half identify as students of color (46% of Cohort 2) and over half as women (57% of Cohort 2). Whether pursuing their first career or looking to transition, the student experience is often negatively impacted by the systemic barriers that continue to exist. To minimize these obstacles, the WSOS Programs team provides resources and support services around academic persistence and career development.  

There is also a general and significant misconception that CTE is an inferior post-secondary option to traditional four-year degrees. On the contrary, CTE offers a variety of disciplines through apprenticeship, certificate and/or associate degree, and/or Bachelor of Applied Science degree programs that lead to high-wage, in-demand jobs. In addition, these programs commonly offer more flexibility and resources to students, so they can successfully balance work and other life responsibilities. 

4. How can people get involved and support CTE students? 

Become a mentor through the new CTS Industry Mentorship program, which pairs current Career and Technical Scholars with mentors who work in various industries such as IT, health care and construction. Or find out how you and your colleagues can get involved with the career development events and programming available at each CTC. 

To learn more about these opportunities, email us at info@waopportunityscholarship.org  

5. What is your favorite part about working in Career and Technical Education? 

We appreciate the diversity of experiences and inspiring stories each Scholar brings and their determination and resiliency. We also value the relationships we’re building with CTC partners to better enhance the college experience and overall connection to campus for all Opportunity Scholars. 

Learn more about the Career and Technical Scholarship

Learn more about WSOS’ impact on Washington students and Washington state