On May 21, 2025, Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Secretary of Education Dr. Carrie Rowe announced that to help ensure every Pennsylvania student has the freedom to chart their own course and the opportunity to succeed the Shapiro Administration’s investments in career and technical education (CTE) have increased funding for CTE and apprenticeships by more than 50 percent since taking office – a nearly $65 million increase. In addition, the Governor’s 2025-26 budget proposal includes an additional increase of $5.5 million for CTE.

According to Dr. Rowe, “By investing in CTE in Pennsylvania, we are equipping students with valuable skills that can be used throughout their lives, promoting lifelong learning and adaptability, and creating pathways to further education, apprenticeships, and advanced training.”

Career and technical education provides students with practical skills and knowledge directly applicable to specific, in-demand careers – increasing their employability and preparing them for the future. It also gives students the opportunity to explore different career paths while still in high school, helping them make informed decisions about their future education and goals, whether it’s pursuing postsecondary education, joining the military, or entering directly into the workforce.

Currently, there are more than 200 school districts, charter schools, and career and technical centers across the Commonwealth offering nearly 2,000 PDE-approved CTE programs providing education and training to thousands of students.