Career and Technology Education programs gain traction with younger people, NICE Community Schools says
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ISHPEMING TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WLUC) – The trades are always in need of younger talent. That’s why schools in the U.P. have been putting extra emphasis on introducing students to Career and Technical Education, or CTE, opportunities.
Nearly three years ago, NICE Community Schools invested $1.5 million to renovate its career and technology education facilities.
With another school year starting up, the school says interest in the trades is skewing younger.
Middle school students at Aspen Ridge Middle School are making concrete impacts in their community through CTE courses. They have built trails on campus grounds, maintained wetlands and harvested maple syrup.
John Jessen, a CTE instructor, says NICE has put a lot of resources into the program.
“We’re really blessed in this district that our district really supports Career and Technical Education, and that’s evident by all of our renovations that we’ve done, all of our new programs and all the, all the things that we’re doing here,” Jessen says.
High schoolers can then get affiliated credits with Northern Michigan University or other institutions just by taking high school courses.
NICE Community Schools Superintendent Bryan DeAugustine says students find opportunities with either universities or companies right after graduating.
“And we’ve even had students who’ve gone from graduation right to working on our buildings with local contractors. So doing things like pouring footings, helping with welding and electrical work, it’s really been amazing. And I think it’s a great opportunity for our students,” DeAugustine says.
DeAugustine says investing in these needed trades early can bring great results down the line.
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