November arrives. The air is crisp with the promise of change. In Tennessee, the Department of Education marks Career Development Month, a time to honor the quiet strength of career and technical education (CTE).

These hands-on programs offer something real, something tangible. They attract those who might otherwise shy away from the halls of higher learning. In Hamilton County, the numbers speak loudly. It ranks fourth in enrollment at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology, where skills are forged in the fires of experience. Yet, for all the students who signed up, the rate of certification lags behind the needs of the construction industry. We still have work to do.

The push for college attendance can hurt some students more than we know. Instead of pressuring every student to attend college, educators should encourage them to explore different paths to success. These paths can include college now or later, or even other options. Educators must help create these opportunities, allowing students’ choices to guide their futures.

The purpose of these efforts is to make clear: to arm every student with the tools they need for the work that awaits them. Coming soon is Early Postsecondary Opportunity (EPSO) Week, from November 10 to 14. It’s a chance for young minds to discover the paths that lie before them.

We must not overlook the importance of CTE. These programs shape the future, preparing students for the grind of the workforce. In this month of reflection, we celebrate Tennessee’s promise to ready its people for the competitive arena. The next Governor must see further, envisioning a Tennessee that attracts global companies and high-paying jobs. Investing in our workforce is the way forward.

The TDOE’s initiatives are vital. They seek to modernize high school, ensuring that students leave ready for the roads ahead. By focusing on Credentials of Value, Individualized Advising, Seamless Transitions, and Work-Based Learning (WBL), they demonstrate a commitment to equipping students with the skills and support they need to carve out their own destinies.

In October, the FutureReadyTN Roadshows concluded. Over 400 educators, industry partners, and policymakers gathered to shape Tennessee’s vision for postsecondary readiness. This collaboration is changing the face of career education. The results speak volumes:

• 46,139 middle school students have engaged in new CTE programs across 165 districts and charter schools.  
• 51,427 work-based learning credits were earned, a testament to growing participation.  
• Over 221,000 course enrollments in early postsecondary opportunities showcase a clear sign of rising interest.  
• Membership in career and technical student organizations climbed to 70,694, reflecting a six percent increase.  
• 42 districts expanded their career coaching staff, enhancing student connections with EPSOs and WBL experiences.  

The light shines on career development opportunities. With a clear and strong vision, Tennessee is building a solid foundation for its students. As the landscape shifts and new technologies emerge, the state prepares for the next generation. They will step into the world equipped with the knowledge and confidence to face whatever comes their way. What can you do to help shape this future?

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JC Bowman is the executive director of Professional Educators of Tennessee.