Overview of the Bill

House Resolution 993 is a piece of legislation introduced in the 118th Congress, second session, on February 1, 2024. The bill is a resolution in support of recognizing and promoting Career and Technical Education Month. It seeks to underline the importance of career and technical education (CTE) in equipping a skilled workforce that is competitive in a global economy. The resolution was referred to the Committee on Education and the Workforce and aims to motivate educational stakeholders across the United States to prioritize CTE as a valuable educational pathway.

Summary of Significant Issues

The bill highlights several key issues and facts concerning career and technical education:

• Workforce Demand and Education: It is anticipated that 17 million new workers will be required in the United States infrastructure sector over the next decade. Furthermore, more than half of jobs now demand some level of postsecondary education, though not necessarily a bachelor's degree. This indicates a pressing need for CTE programs to prepare students for these roles.

• Educational Impact: CTE is shown to correlate with lower high school dropout rates and a higher likelihood of on-time graduation, thus reflecting its positive influence on educational achievement.

• Public Support and Legislative Backing: The popularity of CTE is evidenced by a survey revealing that 94% of parents support expanding access to such programs. The U.S. Congress also recognized its importance by passing the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act in 2018.

Potential Impact on the Public

The resolution could significantly impact the public by fostering a workforce better equipped to meet the demands of a changing economy. By promoting CTE, the resolution acknowledges the essential role these programs play in preparing students for high-wage, high-skill careers that do not require a four-year college degree. This could lead to a more diversified job market and help in closing skills gaps in critical sectors.

The emphasis on career readiness can also foster social mobility by providing accessible educational pathways to lucrative careers. Encouraging educational institutions to integrate CTE into their curricula could help alleviate some of the pressures traditionally placed on four-year college programs, enabling a broader range of educational and career opportunities for students.

Impact on Stakeholders

Positive Impacts:

• Students: Students stand to benefit from enhanced access to CTE programs, allowing them to acquire marketable skills and credentials tailored to high-demand fields. This can lead to better job prospects right after completion of secondary or technical education programs.

• Employers: By supporting and expanding CTE, the resolution helps ensure that employers will have a pipeline of well-prepared candidates for technical roles that require specialized skills without the need for lengthy on-the-job training.

• Educational Institutions: Schools and educational programs could benefit from increased focus and funding for CTE, allowing for the development of comprehensive curricula that prepare students for the workforce.

Challenges:

• Funding and Resources: Implementing enhanced CTE programs could pose challenges related to funding, resources, and training for educators needed to effectively deliver these programs.

• Stigmatization: There might still be cultural stigmas attached to non-traditional educational paths, which can make the promotion of CTE programs challenging. Effort will be required to elevate the perception of CTE as a credible and valuable educational path.

Overall, House Resolution 993 reflects a strong commitment toward fostering educational pathways that align closely with labor market needs, potentially leading to a robust, well-prepared workforce capable of sustaining and enhancing the U.S. economy.