This research examines whether state K-12 CTE systems are set up to define pathways, track student activity and outcomes, and connect that activity to workforce priorities. By assessing structure, data, workforce alignment, and transparency, the study establishes a national baseline for CTE program readiness and identifies where systems can be strengthened to support effective pathways.
This research includes a 50-state review of K–12 CTE program structure, data availability, and transparency, paired with workforce analysis developed in partnership with the Burning Glass Institute. We reviewed public documentation and engaged state agencies to clarify definitions and data. Findings are based on consistent criteria to support cross-state comparison.
The findings show wide variation in CTE program readiness across states, particularly in pathway structure, data availability, and workforce connection. In most cases, gaps reflect system design and data limitations rather than program quality. The results establish a national baseline and highlight practical opportunities to strengthen pathways over time.
This analysis examines whether state K–12 CTE systems are set up to define pathways, track student activity and outcomes, and connect that activity to workforce priorities. It assesses readiness across all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
No. This is a state-level systems analysis. It does not evaluate individual schools, districts, educators, or students. It examines how states organize, measure, and share information about CTE pathways and outcomes.
CTE program readiness describes whether a state’s system is structured, supported by actionable data, connected to workforce priorities, and transparent enough to support analysis, decision-making, and continuous improvement.
The findings help states and partners identify program gaps, set priorities, and target actions to strengthen readiness—creating the foundation for effective, workforce-aligned, and high-quality CTE pathways.
Readiness reflects whether a state’s CTE system is set up to define pathways, track outcomes, and connect activity to workforce needs. Effectiveness examines whether those pathways are both aligned and high-quality—leading to meaningful student outcomes and opportunity. This analysis focuses only on program readiness.
