Abstract
Career and technical education (CTE) has remained a dynamic entity in the world of education since its inception. The changes in the 1990s have made significant advancements in the image and validity of career and technical education programs. These programs have become an important factor of economy and social growth worldwide. The success of students begins with how they are educated and the quality and training of their teachers. Improving teacher quality will be important if CTE is expected to alter its mission. The availability, experience, priorities, and selected practices of teachers can be expected to affect quality of instruction. This conceptual paper reported the following factors as impacting the preparation of CTE teachers: industry experience and academic background, teacher shortages, alternative routes to licensure, professional development, recruitment. Substantial investments in recruitment and in-service training approaches may be required if federal legislation continues to make supporting academic achievement a priority for CTE.Career and technical education (CTE) has remained a dynamic entity in the world of education since its inception. The changes in the 1990s have made significant advancements in the image and validity of career and technical education programs. These programs have become an important factor of economy and social growth worldwide. The success of students begins with how they are educated and the quality and training of their teachers. Improving teacher quality will be important if CTE is expected to alter its mission. The availability, experience, priorities, and selected practices of teachers can be expected to affect quality of instruction. This conceptual paper reported the following factors as impacting the preparation of CTE teachers: industry experience and academic background, teacher shortages, alternative routes to licensure, professional development, recruitment. Substantial investments in recruitment and in-service training approaches may be required if federal legislation continues to make supporting academic achievement a priority for CTE.