Among the designations for February in West Virginia is Career Technical Education month, during which the state Department of Education intends to build awareness of the importance of career technical education in strengthening our workforce by preparing students for high-demand jobs.

Given that we have turned the corner into the second half of the school year, and many young people are seriously considering what their path will be after high school graduation, it is a good reminder that well-trained skilled workers are desperately needed in a range of fields.

Across the Mountain State, public school students at all levels learn skills that lead them through 65 programs in 16 industry clusters, such as health sciences, advanced manufacturing, information technology, construction, agriculture and hospitality.

According to the Department of Education, during the 2024-25 school year more than 91,000 sixth through 12th grade students took career technical education courses, with more than 11,500 participating in work-based learning opportunities. During that time, students earned more than $5 million in wages. But more importantly, they learned what it means to be vital pieces of West Virginia’s workforce, and that they have a great deal to contribute to our economy.

“Career Technical Education is producing real results for West Virginia’s economy,” said State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt. “Our students are gaining workplace experience, earning wages and developing skills that employers look for, before they even graduate high school.”

Figuring out the next step after high school graduation is not the same for every student. In fact, for many students the path they take — what is best for them AND our economy — begins with classes made available to them in elementary, middle and high school. Parents and guardians must not forget those options as they help guide their students in building their own bright futures.