When talk turns to education in Michigan, thoughts typically default to standardized testing and advanced degrees in post-secondary pursuits.
Yet there’s a quiet revolution taking place in Michigan classrooms — one that doesn’t always make the headlines, but nonetheless quietly reshapes futures. Career and technical education have evolved from a vocational option to become a cornerstone of opportunity for students and for the economy of Lansing and beyond.
According to the Michigan Department of Education, a record 55,431 Michigan students completed a full CTE program in the 2024-2025 school year — more than double the number a decade ago.
With 35% of jobs are projected to require more than a high school diploma but less than a four-year degree by 2031, CTE fills a critical gap. The numbers tell a story of rising demand in technical and career education; however, behind the facts and figures are young people who are exploring a passion, gaining skills and stepping into successful careers.
Mid-Michigan is blessed to have a wealth of options for career paths available to students. The Eaton RESA Career Preparation Center has parlayed partnerships into hands-on career-focused programming. The Wilson Talent Center operated by the Ingham Intermediate School District opens career pathways for juniors and seniors from multiple districts. And the Lansing School District dedicated a full-time CTE high school in 2023.
These are not fringe offerings. They are established, evolving parts of our local educational fabric, giving students from every background a way to learn that feels relevant and real.
Career and technical education is not always readily recognized. It’s time to give this understated education revolution a louder voice. For Lansing and the surrounding region, maintaining and expanding high-quality CTE options must remain a priority. That means funding, partnerships with business and industry, and continued outreach so students and families know these options exist.
When a student finds purpose, our community gains dependable talent — and we all rise together.
Viva la revolution.
Tiffany Dowling
Publisher
