February is Career and Technical Education Month! Career and Technical Education (CTE) plays a vital role in shaping careers, bridging the skills gap, and fostering a future-ready workforce. CTE provides hands-on learning, cutting-edge skills development, and real-world application to pave the way for a new era of professionals. CTE benefits students contemplating their educational path, educators seeking innovative teaching methods, and industry professionals invested in developing their next generation of talent.
The High School Tech Internship (HSTI) is an innovative CTE program helping to shape the landscape of education and career development. The HSTI program provides high school students with real-world experiences while giving employers a chance to identify and cultivate their future talent pool. Through the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation, Ohio employers can hire interns in technology roles that focus on software development, data, cloud and IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, broadband/5G, advanced mobility, and other in-demand technology-focused roles. The ESC of Central Ohio is one of 6 intermediaries helping to connect businesses with schools and districts.
Ohio is at the forefront in technology, manufacturing, bioscience, healthcare, construction, and automotive industries which strongly relies on our Career Technical Education (CTE) schools to help produce our future workforce. Check out these facts about CTE students in the state of Ohio!
- 136,691 students participated in Career-Tech courses last year.
- 79.7% of CTE students scored proficient or higher on technical skill assessments.
- 95.8% of CTE students graduated.
- 66.7% of CTE students were employed.
- 44.7% of CTE students were enrolled in post-high school learning.
Unlocking the Benefits for Businesses:
Businesses can identify and nurture young talent who may become valuable employees in the future, creating an effective recruitment strategy. Businesses can evaluate potential future employees in a real-world setting, assessing their skills, work ethic, and cultural fit within the organization. This can streamline the hiring process and contribute to building a strong and dedicated workforce.
Companies that invest in providing educational opportunities for students also demonstrate their commitment to community development and professional growth. This commitment can attract top talent and enhance the company's public outlook. Overall, internships offer a mutual benefit for organizations – while businesses gain access to enthusiastic and motivated individuals, interns gain practical experience, exposure to the industry, and the chance to develop essential skills. Hosting interns contributes to the long-term success and sustainability of businesses.
Here’s a testimonial from a Central Ohio organization that hosted an intern last year, and will be hosting multiple interns in the coming months:
“The HS Internship program has been a huge success for us and we are excited to see it continue in 2024! It is a great opportunity that benefits both the student and the employer. We have been able to help the students build business knowledge and system experience while challenging them to take on projects that keep moving our business forward. It is fun and rewarding to watch the students grow and it is amazing how quickly they are able to make an impact with us using the skills they have as a foundation”. —Todd S. - Product Owner, Digital Technology & Business Transformation, G&J Pepsi Bottlers Inc
Advantages for Schools, Districts & Students:
Schools and districts can participate in this program, too! Schools and districts can hire their own students in key roles that will help support their district’s technology department. Districts have found strong connections for their students in their Chrome Depot, and key expansion of their infrastructure (cabling and networks). Educators can also learn about new and emerging industries and adapt their teaching methods to help prepare their students for their future careers.
Internships offer students the opportunity to gain firsthand experience in a professional setting related to their interests or potential career paths. This practical experience helps them understand what a particular job entails and allows them to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios. Students who are interested in technology classes or like to tinker with their home PC, gaming system, and internet should apply.
Internships also allow students to connect with professionals in their field of interest, building valuable relationships that can lead to mentorship, references, and future job opportunities. Networking is a crucial aspect of career development, and internships provide an excellent platform for students to start building their professional network. By participating in internships during high school, students become better prepared for the transition to college and the workforce. They gain a deeper understanding of career pathways, workplace expectations, and professional norms, setting them up for success in their future academic and career journeys.
Here’s a testimonial from a student that participated in the program:
“Coming out of high school straight into an internship position with G&J Pepsi has given me the opportunity to build my career and personal lift at the same time. Having a position right out of the gate to give me applicable skills to help me in the future. Being able to gain these skills while taking classes to build my education has been such a unique and useful opportunity that I can't recommend enough.” —Oliver Bell, Canal Winchester High School, 2023 – G&J Pepsi Bottlers Inc.
Career and Technology Education Month serves as a reminder of the crucial role that career-oriented learning plays in shaping the future workforce. By highlighting the importance of practical skills, hands-on experience, and industry partnerships, the month is a reminder of the value of preparing students for success in an ever-evolving workforce. The ESC of Central Ohio has partnered with BridgED to register and assist participants in the High School Tech Internship Program. Learn more and sign up here.
John Hambrick is the Work-Based Learning Coordinator at the ESC of Central Ohio. John has been engaging and collaborating with Central Ohio businesses, area Economic Development professionals, educational partners, and training institutions for the past 20 years. John is a community connector, helping organizations with workforce solutions, including talent pipeline development, hiring events, retention strategies, training solutions, and key professional networking groups. Since 2019, John has advocated for stronger business and industry alignment and participation with the K-12 ecosystem across Central Ohio, as well as promoting key initiatives affecting Ohio’s adult and student workforce.