Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs in Maryland are meticulously structured statewide initiatives designed to equip students for thriving in the global economy and meeting the evolving demands of the workforce. These programs are not just educational pathways; they are strategic frameworks aligned with both nationally recognized and state-specific industry and academic benchmarks. Organized into career clusters—groupings of occupations and industries sharing core functionalities—CTE programs are fundamentally built upon rigorous academic and technical skill standards. This ensures that students are comprehensively prepared for the dual pathways of higher education and immediate career entry.
A cornerstone of Maryland’s Career And Technical Education Programs is the integration of work-based learning opportunities. These practical experiences, including internships, apprenticeships, clinical experiences, and industry-mentored projects, provide invaluable real-world application of classroom learning. Furthermore, students participating in these programs have the distinct advantage of potentially earning college credit and acquiring industry-recognized credentials. These credentials range from professional certifications to licenses, significantly enhancing their employability and career prospects upon graduation.
Maryland’s commitment to excellence in Career and Technical Education programs is evident in their collaborative design process. Developed in partnership with state and national stakeholders, these programs maintain statewide standardization while fostering continuous improvement. Professional development for educators is a key component, ensuring teachers remain at the forefront of industry practices and educational innovation. The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), in close collaboration with businesses, higher education institutions, and local school systems, plays a pivotal role in guiding and supporting the rigorous development of CTE programs. This collaborative approach ensures programs remain relevant, adaptive, and effectively prepare students for both college rigor and career demands.
Recognizing the importance of future-focused skills, MSDE actively collaborates to expand Career and Technical Education programs in high-demand career sectors, particularly within the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines. This strategic expansion addresses critical workforce needs and positions Maryland students for leadership in these vital fields. Local Education Agencies (LEAs) are offered flexibility in program implementation, with the option to adopt a state CTE program of study or propose a locally developed program, subject to approval by the Division of Career and College Readiness. This ensures that CTE programs can be tailored to meet specific community and regional workforce needs while adhering to high standards of quality and relevance. For guidance in developing local CTE programs, the established Policies and Procedures for the Development and Continuous Improvement of Career and Technical Education serve as a comprehensive resource.
For those seeking to further support and enhance Career and Technical Education initiatives, various Career and Technical Grant Opportunities are available, providing avenues for funding and program development.
For further inquiries regarding Career and Technical Education programs in Maryland, please contact:
Marquita Friday
Director of Career Programs, Office of College and Career Pathways
Office: (410) 767-0183
[email protected]
