Issue Position: Vocational Training and Dropout Prevention

Issue Position

Technical education programs provide students with practical learning opportunities and hands-on experiences to prepare graduates for a career following high school. Contrary to popular belief, not all prominent, high-demand careers require a college degree. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 10 out of the 28 top fastest-growing careers could be pursued with vocational training available through public schools. Upon completing all vocational requirements, not only can students embark upon a professional or academic career, but many high school graduates even continue to immediately pursue apprenticeships, specialized college programs, or other professional routes. Vocational training programs would help our high school students, as well as adults who are still looking for a career path or may wish to switch industries. Furthermore, vocational training and licensure would allow more citizens to be entrepreneurs, which would lead to small business job creation.

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