Navigating CTE requirements might seem overwhelming, but for students planning their career paths and educators guiding them, understanding the specific CTE requirements and opportunities in your region is essential.
In the areas served by Amtek—Maryland, Delaware, West Virginia, Virginia, and the District of Columbia—each has crafted its own approach to Career and Technical Education, tailored to its economic needs and educational goals.
Discover how these regions are shaping the future workforce with customized programs, industry certifications, and work-based learning experiences designed to ensure success in the 21st century.
Maryland CTE Requirements
The state of Maryland aims to prepare students for a diverse, modern economy. The state’s Blueprint for Maryland’s Future program—which aims to strengthen CTE as a critical component of the state’s education system– sets a target that by the school year 2029-2030, 45% of graduating public school students will achieve an industry-recognized occupational credential before they graduate.
Student Requirements
CTE is not strictly a graduation requirement for all high school students, however, the state encourages CTE participation as part of its educational framework. Students can choose to take CTE courses as part of their elective options, which can provide them with valuable skills and credentials for their future careers or postsecondary education.
Maryland’s CTE programs are grouped into various career clusters like information technology, health professions, and engineering. These programs are designed to align with both state and national industry standards and help students prepare for industry-recognized certifications and credentials. Plus, they often include hands-on experiences such as internships and apprenticeships to give students real-world skills.
Educator Requirements
As for the teachers, there are over 60 CTE programs of study that address Maryland’s current and future workforce needs. Each program of study requires educators that possess the skill and knowledge to prepare students for careers in identified programs of study to ensure they’re fully qualified to teach their subjects. CTE educator certifications are outlined by the MSDE here.
Delaware CTE Requirements
Student Requirements
To graduate from high school in the state of Delaware, students need to complete three credits in a Career Pathway. In Delaware, career pathways begin in the public education system (K-12) through CTE pathways offered in charter, comprehensive, and technical school districts. Career pathways span secondary and postsecondary education, align to employer needs and careers, and provide high-quality education, training, and support services for youth and adults.
The program focuses on providing students with a clear pathway from high school to college and career by offering a blend of academic coursework, career and technical education, and work-based learning experiences. Specific pathways include fields of study like agriculture, business, and manufacturing.
To participate in the Delaware Pathways program, students generally need to meet certain requirements, which can vary depending on the specific pathway they are interested in. However, common requirements and expectations typically involve enrolling in and successfully completing a series of courses related to the chosen pathway. These courses might include both academic and career-focused subjects. Students are typically also required to participate in work-based learning experiences, such as internships or apprenticeships, which provide hands-on experience in their field of interest.
Educator Requirements
As for the teachers, they need a Delaware teaching license and at least one certificate in their specific area of expertise to be fully qualified to teach CTE courses. They also must engage in ongoing professional development, collaborate with postsecondary partners, and more. CTE educator resources for the state can be found here.
West Virginia CTE Requirements
In West Virginia, CTE is not a strict requirement for all high school students, but it is highly encouraged and widely available. The state offers a range of CTE programs that students can choose to take as part of their high school education. These programs are designed to provide students with hands-on skills and knowledge that can help them in various careers or further education.
Student Requirements
West Virginia’s CTE programs are aligned with state standards and are aimed at preparing students for both post-secondary education and the workforce. While participation in these programs is optional, many students benefit from the practical skills and certifications they offer. Students can dive into various fields like automotive technology, health sciences, and construction. These programs focus on practical, technical skills and help students earn industry-recognized credentials.
As part of their training, students often earn certifications that are recognized in the industry, which can be a big boost for their future careers.
Educator Requirements
For teachers, CTE educators in West Virginia requirements include skills verification, passing employability tests, receiving mentorship, and completing a CTE teacher certification program to be fully qualified.
Virginia CTE Requirements
In Virginia, Career and Technical Education (CTE) is also not a strict graduation requirement, but it is strongly encouraged and widely integrated into the educational system. Virginia’s CTE programs are designed to provide students with practical skills and knowledge that are relevant to various career paths and further education. Program areas include trade and industrial education, technology and engineering, health and medical sciences, and more.
Student Requirements
High school students in Virginia have the option to take CTE courses as part of their education, and these courses can count towards graduation requirements. Additionally, Virginia has specific standards and pathways for CTE, including programs that offer certifications, dual enrollment opportunities, and workforce readiness skills.
The state promotes CTE to help students gain valuable skills, industry certifications, and real-world experience, which can be advantageous for both immediate employment and higher education.
Educator Requirements
CTE teachers in Virginia must meet certain certification requirements, including holding a valid Virginia teaching license with a CTE endorsement. To obtain this endorsement, teachers typically need to complete a state-approved program in their area of specialization. Teachers are often required to have relevant industry experience, additional coursework, degrees, or certifications depending on their field, and they are encouraged to participate in ongoing professional development to stay current with industry trends and educational practices.
District of Columbia CTE Requirements
In the District of Columbia, DC public schools offer CTE programs that can help students meet elective requirements and gain valuable skills for their future careers. DC offers programs in fields like IT, health sciences, and hospitality. These help students gain hands-on knowledge and skills, participate in internships and mentorships, and earn college credit or professional certifications.
Student Requirements
Students can earn up to 60 different industry-recognized credentials while in high school, giving them a strong start in their careers.
Educator Requirements
For teachers, requirements include certification and a specialized endorsement in CTE, relevant experience and education, plus ongoing professional development.
Each state and district has its own approach to CTE, but all emphasize aligning programs with industry standards and preparing students for both further education and direct entry into the workforce.
