Date/Time: October 30, 2025 | 9:00 – 10:30 am

Room: 162-163

Audience: Architects, Engineers, Educators, Facility Personnel, Contractors / Suppliers / Manufacturers, Consultants

Call to Action: 
Visit Wightman’s Website and Social Media: https://gowightman.com | www.youtube.com | www.linkedin.com
Visit Legat’s Website and Social Media: www.legat.com | www.youtube.com | www.linkedin.com
Visit KRESA’s Website and Social Media: www.kresa.org | www.linkedin.com | www.facebook.com

Abstract: The stigmatization of CTE and the misconceptions that surround it are contributing factors to CTE’s varied success throughout the nation and have led some to question the efficacy of technical education in the school system. CTE is a broad term for education that combines academic and technical skills with the knowledge and training needed to succeed in today’s labor market. It introduces students to competencies needed in today’s real world. Challenging the antiquated definitions associated with CTE is needed so we can truly leverage opportunities for all students while simultaneously strengthening career readiness for students across the board. Understanding the difference between the previously offered vocational education and modern-day CTE pathways is an important conversation that helps provide the clarity needed for today’s students. The World Economic Forum recently described Putting a Skills First Framework for Action as a way to design a pathway for the workforce. Skills and labor shortages are two of society’s and economies’ most pressing concerns today. The Future of Jobs report published by the World Economic Forum identifies skills gaps and an inability to attract talent as the key barriers preventing industry transformation, and the situation gets more complex as industries race to fill the jobs of tomorrow. CTE programs help students see the relevance of their studies for their future and motivate them. Students who may have hidden quietly in the back of their class may find the confidence they never knew they had, while another may discover a passion for a specific skill that will lead to a fulfilling in-demand career. A teacher struggling to provide students with real-world connections in their classroom may transform the curriculum into an engaging model. Experiential, hands-on, real-world learning gives schools equitable opportunities for all learning types. It builds curiosity and critical thinking skills needed in the jobs of tomorrow.

Learning Objectives:

1. Learn the differences between vocational education and CTE (background/ stigma).
2. Learn how CTE programs are changing education in schools all around us (community transformation).
3. Discover how community partnerships in CTE programs are changing the education framework and bringing equity in our schools (pride).
4. Discover how students with special needs are thriving in these CTE programs, helping build a better future for ALL students (empower).