Career & Technical Education

Career and Technical Education (CTE) is an essential component of the educational system, preparing learners for life, careers, and college. 

Career and Technical Education (CTE) Overview

• Emphasizes real-world and technical skills through project-based learning.

• Integrates occupational content and academics through hands-on application.

• Develops essential employability and 21st Century Skills:

  • Communication

  • Collaboration

  • Creativity

  • Critical thinking

  • Problem-solving

Teacher & Industry Collaboration

• CTE teachers partner with:

  • Businesses

  • Industry professionals

  • 2–4 year postsecondary institutions

  • The military

• Purpose: Bridge high school curriculum with relevant, real-world skills.

West Fargo CTE Program

• Offers 65+ CTE courses at middle and high school levels.

• Provides extended learning experiences:

  • Job-shadowing

  • Cooperative work experiences

  • Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs)

• In 2015–16:

  • 1,301 students in grades 9–12 participated in at least one CTE course.

  • Represented 54% of the high school population.

• Student participation is vital in preparing for high-tech and high-skilled careers.

Cass County Career & Technical Education Center (CCCTEC)

• West Fargo is a member and leader of CCCTEC, established in 2013.

• A “Virtual Center” collaboration between:

  • Central Cass

  • Fargo

  • West Fargo

  • Northern Cass Public Schools

• Goal: Expand access to CTE courses using shared resources and flexible delivery (online and video conferencing).

Shared CTE Programs through CCCTEC

• Automated Manufacturing – South High

• Aviation & Diesel Technology – Sheyenne High

• Agriculture Education – Northern Cass

• Health Science – West Fargo, North, and Sheyenne High

• Welding Technology – NDSCS-Fargo

• Information Technology – West Fargo, Sheyenne, and South High

Impact of the CCCTEC Collaboration

• Broader access to specialized CTE programs.

• Promotes idea-sharing among:

  • CTE educators

  • District leaders

  • FM area businesses

• Results in stronger curriculum and business partnerships.