Having just returned from the Educating for Careers Conference in Sacramento, California it was amazing to see the momentum being carried into the CTE sector. In just a few years 86% of high schools across the US now offer CTE courses with many more gearing up to follow this trend. It is no surprise why this is important, but as we met with hundreds of schools it is evident more support is needed in helping schools establish high-quality and meaningful programs. As this value in offering CTE programs continues to grow I believe it will be the schools that are supported by organized and dedicated industry associations that will achieve the greatest growth and success.
The one thing that stands out as we first meet with schools at conferences is their awe and disbelief when they learn that the support and resources that the Next Generation in Trucking Association offers to them are free of charge. They are amazed at how much support is being offered to them; such as the NGT Curriculum Guide and Train the Trainer events. I quickly educate them that NGT is supported by the amazing trucking industry that allows us to provide these resources to streamline the process of getting these programs up and running as soon as we can.
The support NGT provides to schools is truly unparalleled. As the evolution of CTE programs expands across the country NGT will continue to lead the way in ensuring that students have accessibility to this needed and essential career pathway.
Note: Special thanks to Enrique Mar with Advanced Training Systems and Patterson High School Trucking Program alumni and current Walmart Transportation driver, David Kastiro, for taking time to help with the NGT booth and presentation at the Educating for Careers Conference.
Written By: Dave Dein