WHEREAS, career and technical education prepares students to succeed in academics and careers in both established and emerging industries; and
WHEREAS, the mission of North Carolina career and technical education is to empower all students to be successful residents, workers, and leaders in our global economy; and
WHEREAS, career and technical education programs help students become the skilled workers employers need to perform the jobs of today and tomorrow; and
WHEREAS, career and technical education programs in North Carolina provide education for all students in the areas of agriculture; business, finance, and marketing; career development; computer science, IT and technology education; family and consumer sciences; health science; trade and industrial education; and
WHEREAS, North Carolina career and technical student organizations such as DECA, Future Business Leaders of America, Family Career and Community Leaders of America, the National FFA Organization, HOSA - Future Health Professionals, SkillsUSA, and the Technology Student Association support the work of career and technical education programs to develop character, citizenship, leadership, and technical skills essential for students who are preparing for the workforce and further education; and
WHEREAS, along with North Carolina's 16 Career Clusters and over 70 State-supported Career Pathways, career and technical education programs aid in our state's workforce development efforts; and
WHEREAS, the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act demonstrates the crucial mission of these initiatives to enhance student readiness for successful careers and strengthen North Carolina's workforce;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim February, 2023, as “CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.