WHAT The CTE Foundation is an independent, non-profit organization that leverages private and public funding to seed the development of career and technical education programs in alignment with the economic and workforce development needs of Sonoma County. Career technical education provides hands-on, real-world learning by combining core academics with the technical and soft skills needed to meet 21st Century workplace demand. WHY CTE Foundation wants to ensure all Sonoma County students have rewarding careers that strengthen their lives, our community and the economy. Research indicates that students participating in programs blending career technical education and academic coursework • graduate at higher rates • are more likely to pursue and complete post-secondary training/education • earn a higher GPA (indicating greater levels of student engagement) • are more likely to be employed in careers aligned with their skills and interests HOW Grant-Making: The Foundation provides funding and support to local high schools to create and expand classes relevant for students to explore career options, be career-ready and make informed, post-high school choices. Examples of CTEF-funded courses: CAD Women in Engineering; Construction Technology; Engineering and Design; Farm to Table/Integrated Culinary; Introduction to Health Careers; Project Make; Robotics and Engineering Regional Programs: The Foundation also partners with education, government and business to create regional programs and initiatives to prepare students for high-wage, high-demand careers that align with local workforce development needs and that are focused on Sonoma County’s top five economic drivers. Examples of CTEF programs: North Bay Construction Corps; Summer Health Careers Institute; Tinker Academy; Environmental Resource Management Summer Academy; Food & Beverage Manufacturing Careers Summit
