Have you ever thought...
This CTE class is really interesting. I just wish there was a way to learn and experience more.
Or...
I have learned a lot about this career field and the skills needed, but how can I put them to use.
This is where CTSOs (Career Technical Student Organizations) come in.
CTSOs give CTE students additional opportunities outside of the classroom to grow and develop skills they will need within their chosen career paths. These opportunities range from after-school activities and programs to competitive events where students demonstrate their skills. Also, CTSOs give students ways to network with other students and industry partners to start building professional relationships.
CTSOs are co-curricular programs offered in conjunction with Career Technical Education (CTE) courses. CTSOs extend teaching and learning through innovative competitions, business and community partnerships, and leadership experiences at the school, state, and national levels.
All CTSOs have goals
At the national, state and local levels, CTSOs have four common organizational goals:
- Academic and career achievement
- Leadership development
- Professional development
- Community service
How do they do this?
CTSOs achieve these goals by offering diverse programming that is aligned with and designed to enhance and extend classroom instruction and learning.
Why should you participate in a CTSO?
- Develop interpersonal skills
- Practice teamwork
- Learn to set and achieve goals
- Demonstrate leadership skills
- Increase personal motivation
- Raise educational aspirations
- Network with industry professionals
- Prepare for life after high school
- Scholarship opportunities
Students are the backbone of CTSOs
Students are a key component to making a CTSO chapter successful. Some of the duties and responsibilities students have include:
- Voting for and/or holding an office
- Creating, organizing, and executing fundraisers
- Planning and participating in community service events
- Selecting, preparing for, and competing in competitions
- Volunteering for and participating on special committees
- Following the bylaws and/or constitution of the chapter
- Promoting membership to fellow CTE classmates
- Being a role model within your chapter, your school, and your community
All CTSO's have a lot to offer.
However, each CTSO is unique. Review the information below and identify one or two CTSOs that are either at your high school or you would like to have offered at your high school.
Additional CTSOs
Business Professionals of America
Industry sectors supported by BPA
- Business and Finance
- Marketing, Sales, and Services
- Arts, Media, and Entertainment
- Information and Communication Technologies
Industry sectors supported by Educators Rising
- Education, Child Development, and Family Services
Technology Student Association
Industry sectors supported by TSA
- Engineering and Architecture
- Health Science and Medical Technology
- Information and Communication Technologies
- Manufacturing and Product Development
- Transportation
Alternatives to CTSOs
Virtual Enterprise
Virtual Enterprise is different than other CTSOs in that it is a class offered at a school during the school day. The class is run like a business and all work done is to prepare for competitions. The competitive events are based on all aspects of business.
Check out VE International's YouTube channel at the link below.
AFA CyberPatriot
CyberPatriot operates as a on-campus club with members who are in an Information and Communications Technology class or who have an interest in cyber security as a career. The club members compete in national cyber defense competitions in which they must secure virtual networks.
In conclusion, being a member of a CTSO can set a student apart from those who aren’t members. Having membership listed on a resume can give an applicant an advantage over others when applying for a job, especially if they were in a leadership role in the organization!
Are you ready for a CTSO to change your life?
Explore the K12 Career Education Navigator
The K12 Career Technical Education (CTE) Navigator helps you explore high school courses and career pathways offered across San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. Browse by industry sector, county, school district, and more to find options that match your interests and career goals and see how these pathways can prepare you for college, certifications, apprenticeships, or the workforce.
Credits:
Created with images by RobinHiggins - "confused hands up" • B_A - "hacker silhouette hack"