Importance of Career and Technical Education

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, as co-chairman of the bipartisan Career and Technical Education Caucus, I rise today to emphasize the importance of quality CTE programs, which allow students to succeed in areas that keep our Nation competitive in the global economy.

Last week, I visited a lab at Penn State University, where three-dimensional printers were used to create parts for a wide variety of industries, including those which support our national defense. These students are also among those leading the way in creating metal parts which once could only be fabricated at powdered metal plants.

I was also proud to see very similar programs being offered at the high school level. I spoke to the superintendent of the St. Marys School District in Elk County and was pleased to learn that students at St. Marys High School are graduating with many of the skills needed to succeed in these growing vocational and technical fields.

I am hopeful that with the next reauthorization of the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act we can enhance the partnerships that bridge the gap between our high schools, technical schools, colleges, universities, and employers.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source