Career and Technical Education (CTE)

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Career & Technical Education (CTE) offers many classes with project-based instruction with opportunities for industry certifications.

In the state of Arizona, CTE helps students prepare for a competitive workforce. CTE will engage Arizona learners in relevant experiences leading to purposeful and economically viable careers.

Students participating in CTE programs have the opportunity to earn industry certifications as they complete the program. Additionally, students can participate in career and technical student organizations (CTSOs) where they compete in their chosen program.

CTE is part of a well-rounded education and, as such, CTE programs are eligible to access Title IV funds.

See what CTE programs are offered at each of our high schools.

Fun Facts

students cooking with a chef
  • 4,605 Arizona high school CTE concentrators graduated in 2021 with a recognized postsecondary credential.
  • These youth and adult learners in CTE programs are more engaged, graduate high school at higher rates, earn industry-recognized credentials, and have rewarding and family-sustaining careers.
  • Many students are already enrolled in CTE in Arizona, developing technical, academic and employability skills and engaging in work-based experiences with industry partners. During the 2020-21 school year, Arizona had 111,187 secondary CTE participants.  
  • CTE has been a part of public education since 1917.
  • Queen Creek has had five students serve as state officers for local career and technical student organizations in the last five years:
    • 2018–2019 - FFA
    • 2019–2020 - FCCLA
    • 2020–2021 - DECA
    • 2021–2022 - ITS
    • 2022–2023 - FBLA