CTAE (Career, Technical and Agricultural Education) students at Fayette County High took the month of February to explore the world of work and how to prepare for their future careers after graduation.
Nationally, February is celebrated as CTAE month, a time when schools across the nation give in-depth focus on the skills and knowledge essential for success in the workforce. Students at Fayette County High participated in job-related activities and discussions, and met with representatives from colleges and universities to help them get ready to take the next steps in their fields of interest.
Activities included discussing the pros and cons of social media in the workforce, practicing a proper handshake, dressing for an interview, and taking personality quizzes.
Post-secondary institutions that visited the school included Johnson and Wales University, Southern Crescent Technical College, Art Institute of Atlanta, and Full Sail University.
“We believe it is important to take a month-long focus on CTAE because there are many important skills that are essential for student success, but may not be taught in the traditional school setting. These skills, if taught in the classroom, will better prepare our students for the rapidly changing and competitive world of work,” said teacher Melissa Leonard.
Statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor show that 18 of the 20 fastest growing occupations in the next decade will require CTAE-related skills.
“Fayette County High’s CTAE programs help students gain the technical and academic skills to give them a competitive edge in the workforce and a jumpstart to success,” said Leonard.
