Making the Difference — Learning That Works for America
Career Technical Education brings learning to life by combining academics with hands-on, real-world experiences. Students don't just learn concepts — they apply them through projects, industry tools, and authentic experiences that mirror today's workforce.
What is CTE?
Connect learning to life after high school
Nationwide, Career Technical Education programs are changing, evolving, and innovating to better serve the country's needs. CTE is preparing students of all ages to help drive America's success and vitality.
It creates an educational environment that integrates core academics with real-world relevance — transforming expectations and making a difference for students, secondary and postsecondary schools, businesses, and industry.
Students add value to their overall education by completing CTE programs of study that provide opportunities to earn industry-recognized credentials and college credit while still in high school. Learn more with ACTE and their Basic Facts and State Fact Sheets resources.
See CTE in Action
Discover how CTE is transforming education and creating pathways to real careers across America.
See how CTE programs are preparing students for high-wage, high-skill, high-demand careers.
Explore how career and technical education creates real opportunities for students nationwide.
CTE at ACCESS
ACCESS CTE programs are designed to expand access and remove barriers so all students can explore meaningful career pathways.
Every lesson connects to real skills. Students build, create, and produce — putting knowledge into action through authentic projects.
From industry tours and guest speakers to mentorship and work-based learning — students see careers up close.
With six distinct pathways, students can explore diverse fields and discover what excites them most.
Explore Pathways
Each pathway offers hands-on experiences, skill-building, and connections to real careers.
Design, video, UX, and creative technology
Teaching, mentoring, and child development
Food service, hospitality, and entrepreneurship
Coding, design, and competitive gaming
Aviation, mapping, and unmanned systems
Carpentry, building, and skilled trades
Not sure which pathway fits you?
Take the Career Quiz →Pathway Explorer
Each pathway has quick games to play. Try one on every pathway to unlock the ACCESS Explorer badge — your progress is saved right in your browser.
Beyond the Classroom
Learning by doing — students take part in experiences that connect education to real opportunities.
Get Involved
Discover your interests and explore pathways that align with your goals. Gain real skills and real experience — starting now.
Explore Pathways →Support your student's future success. Learn how CTE programs create opportunities for college, careers, and beyond.
Learn More →Host tours, mentor students, and collaborate with ACCESS CTE to build the next generation of skilled professionals.
Partner With Us →