As February is Career and Technical Education Month, I want to remind everyone, especially our high school students unsure of the path forward, that careers are not one-size, fits-all, and neither is higher education.
It’s why I remain committed to supporting career and technical education programs and am proud Bucks County is home to several premier programs that combine core academics with real-world experience to create individual paths so everyone can excel, no matter their interests or skills.
As a Johnson and Wales graduate with a culinary and restaurant management degree, and serving in the United States Navy, I fully understand the importance of attaining knowledge and proficiency outside a classroom.
The value offered by trade schools and the military, complimented by traditional education, can better fulfill the needs of our constantly changing economy.
As chairman of the Career and Technical Education Subcommittee of the House Education Committee, I have emphasized the importance of ensuring each student is prepared not only for college but the kind of workforce positions left unfilled by an overemphasis on attending a traditional four-year college.
As our high school seniors begin mapping out their post-secondary plans they must know that while college is an option, it’s not the only one or, in some cases, the preferred road. There is real value in accepting an apprenticeship or serving your county. You will be filling a need and starting your life with less debt and more technical skills that will prove invaluable to our community.
You have options many of you have likely not considered. I urge you to be bold and explore the roads others have passed by. The rewards can be great personally and financially.
And that will pay off for our Commonwealth.
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