For the City Times

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) month and the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI), Department of Workforce Development (DWD), and the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) are encouraging students, schools, parents, and educators to discover the “high standards, innovation, and excellence offered through the state’s CTE programs” which helps learners gain real-world skills, make connections, and explore options for college and career success.

Clayton Mancl utilizes the 3-D printers in the Fab Lab located at Lincoln High School. Mancl is also in the LHS Building Construction class and is a youth apprenticeship student at Pointe Precision, Inc. WRPS photo

“Career and Technical Education introduces students to workplace expectations for knowledge and technical skills through a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on experiences,” Governor Tony Evers said.

More than 1,200 Wisconsin Rapids Public School students in grades 6-12 are taking CTE courses in fields such as agriculture, business, family and consumer science, health occupations, marketing, technology, and engineering.

“The district’s comprehensive CTE program provides increased opportunities for students to find a viable route to a rewarding career.  Multiple pathways are provided for students to prepare for diploma and apprenticeship programs, technical college degrees, and industry certifications as well as four-year degree programs and other career training options,” a Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools release stated.

“CTE in Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools and the Wisconsin Rapids community is thriving. Currently, WRPS has partnered with over 100 local business and industry professionals to engage students in School-to-Career programs and advise educators on current workforce needs and trends.”

“WRPS has strong CTE programming to help prepare our students well for a career path of their choosing.  We want every student to succeed, and building their knowledge and skills through CTE programming gives them a great start to a bright future,” Superintendent Craig Broeren added.