DWD and DFI Celebrate Career and Technical Education Month

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The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions are celebrating Career and Technical Education Month.

“Career and technical education opens doors for students by giving them practical skills, leadership opportunities, and a clear connection between education and future careers,” DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek said in a statement. “By working closely with educators, employers, and community partners, we are helping ensure Wisconsin’s workforce remains skilled, competitive and ready for the jobs of tomorrow.”

Gov. Tony Evers proclaimed February 2026 as CTE Month in Wisconsin, noting that career and technical education help improve academic performance and provide students with real-world skills. 

CTE programs across the state collaborate with business and industry partners to meet evolving workforce needs. Many programs offer dual enrollment opportunities, allowing students to earn college credit, experience postsecondary education early and accelerate their path to degree completion or workforce entry.

Wisconsin’s career and technical education saw the Youth Apprenticeship program reach a record high during the 2024–2025 school year with 11,344 student enrollees and 7,447 employer sponsors across more than 80 occupational pathways and 16 career clusters.

The state also supports career and technical education through initiatives such as the Wisconsin Fast Forward expanded grant program.

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