Career and Technical Education Month

Investing in career and technical education (CTE) is key to building a stronger workforce.

 CTE provides insight into the industries that drive Minnesota’s economy and helps learners explore career options.
 CTE expands learning through hands-on instruction, industry expertise, and leadership development.
 Minnesota schools partner with communities and employers to bring real-world learning into classrooms, creating meaningful connections between education and industry.

At Minnesota West, we are proud to offer a wide range of technical degrees and programs that equip students with real-world skills for high-demand careers. Our programs focus on fields like science, technology, engineering, and other rapidly growing industries, providing hands-on training that prepares students for the workforce.

Whether you're just starting your education journey or seeking to build new skills, we offer an excellent alternative to traditional four-year programs, helping students enter high-wage careers with less time and debt. With programs in Agriculture, Education & Early Childhood, Cosmetology, Energy, Manufacturing & Construction, Transportation, Peace Officer, and Customized Training options, we offer a cutting-edge curriculum that connects classroom learning with practical experience, ensuring students graduate career-ready.

February is about celebrating the incredible hard workers and students shaping our economy’s future. Let’s continue to innovate, build, and invest in the next generation!

February Career and Technical Education Month Proclamation

 Whereas:
Career and technical education is the foundation of a successful and empowered workforce. These specialized learning programs provide insight into the industries that drive our modern economy and allow students to explore future career options; and

 Whereas:
Career and technical education expands and diversifies learning experiences with practical instruction and expert guidance. These programs create engaging and supportive opportunities for students to develop leadership skills; and

 Whereas:
Career and technical education equips individuals with skills to support successful careers, especially within industries forecasted to grow significantly in the next decade; and

 Whereas:
Schools across Minnesota have partnered with their communities to bring local business owners and practitioners into classrooms. Students enjoy culinary classes taught by local chefs, woodworking classes led by local artisans, welding classes with shop owners, and health classes taught by nurses; and

 Whereas:
By increasing cooperative efforts and enthusiastic participation among career and technical educators, secondary and postsecondary students, and community experts, we make a critical investment in the growth and vitality of our entire nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, TIM WALZ, Governor of Minnesota, do hereby proclaim February 2026 as:

CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION MONTH