Dave Cremin, President of Straton Industries, a manufacturer located in Stratford, Connecticut, shares his strategy for building a workforce pipeline through CTECS’ Work-based Learning program. In this episode discover how employers can leverage technical high schools to attract and retain skilled talent.

Have an idea for the show? Email us at CTECS@cttech.org with subject line “Talking Shop”

Graduates of the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System are empowered to enter the global workforce; pursue apprenticeships; or pursue post-secondary educational opportunities at four-year higher educational institutions, two-year community college programs or occupational certificate programs.

In this series, hear from some of our alumni and learn how a technical high school education contributed to their success.

Learn more: cttech.org

The 47th Annual SkillsUSA Connecticut State Leadership and Skills Conference Awards Ceremony will be streamed live at approximately 6:00pm from New Haven, CT.

In this Work-based Learning: On the Job episode we visit Dulin Collision Center in Milford, CT. The company has worked closely with Platt Technical High School, located in Milford, CT, to hire grade 11 and 12 students through the Work-based Learning program (WBL).

WBL is a part of the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System's (CTECS) Student Workforce. WBL allows a student to work for an employer during their trade instructional time. Students not only receive credit toward their career technology, but also get paid. WBL is offered at all CTECS schools as a way for students to gain real-world experience, work in teams, solve problems and meet employer expectations.

Through partnerships with local companies, students gain hands-on career development experiences that will help them through the transition from school to work and give them an advantage in the competitive workforce.

Learn more at cttech.org/wbl

Palace Theatre 5:30PM EST Friday June 17 2022

Check out some of CTECS' best moments from the second quarter of the 2023-2024 school year!

visit cttech.org to learn more

In this video we take a closer look into the role of School Counselors at CTECS, we learn how and why they're improving student outcomes and graduation rates.

In this Work-based Learning: On the Job episode we visit Enhance a Colour located in Danbury, CT. The company has worked closely with Abbott Technical High School, located in Danbury, CT, to hire grade 11 and 12 students through the Work-based Learning program (WBL).

WBL is a part of the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System's (CTECS) Student Workforce. WBL allows a student to work for an employer during their trade instructional time. Students not only receive credit toward their career technology, but also get paid. WBL is offered at all CTECS schools as a way for students to gain real-world experience, work in teams, solve problems and meet employer expectations.

Through partnerships with local companies, students gain hands-on career development experiences that will help them through the transition from school to work and give them an advantage in the competitive workforce.

Learn more at cttech.org/wbl

Graphic Design students are introduced to the basic concepts of page layout and graphic design, methods of print production, and image development for new media. Students learn the printing and bindery process, fundamentals of type, typesetting, page layout, proofreading, line photography, image assembly, and substrates. In advanced grades students are instructed in intermediate typesetting, the design of multicolor documents, multicolor print production, equipment troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance.


Visit cttech.org/graphics to learn more.

Award presented 1/10/2024 9AM

Join us as two CTECS students take center stage to share their personal experiences and compelling reasons for choosing a technical high school. Delve into their exciting trades, manufacturing and information technology, and gain a firsthand perspective on how these specialized programs are shaping their educational and professional journeys.

Have an idea for the show? Email us at CTECS@cttech.org with subject line “Talking Shop”

Check out some of CTECS' best moments from the first quarter of the 2023-2024 school year!

visit cttech.org to learn more

Dr. Ellen Solek speaks to experts in the manufacturing and information technology fields about what it takes to succeed in the modern workforce. Dr. Christine Benz, Training and Development Manager, TRUMPF Inc., and Dr. Jeff Auker, Head of Innovation and Delivery at Infosys., Hartford, CT, offer advice and insights on working in teams, understanding your customer and adapting to emerging technologies.

Have an idea for the show? Email us at CTECS@cttech.org with subject line “Talking Shop”

The Manufacturing cluster provides students with the theoretical knowledge and skills for careers in planning, managing and performing the processing of materials into intermediate or final products, as well as related professional and technical support activities. Students also have the opportunity to continue their studies at post-secondary institutions.

Students concentrate their studies and earn a Career and Technical certificate in one of the following programs:

Aerospace Component Manufacturing Technology
Mechanical Design and Engineering Technology
Mechatronics
Precision Machining Technology
Welding and Metal Fabrication

In a world rapidly transformed by technological advancements and evolving industries, education must adapt to meet the demands of the workforce. In this episode of Talking Shop, we speak with Senator Jan Hochadel about how career and technical education training programs at CTECS are evolving to fulfill employer needs, and how partnership and innovation are the keys to success.

Have an idea for the show? Email us at CTECS@cttech.org with subject line “Talking Shop”

Eli Whitney Technical High School is located in Hamden, Connecticut. We have almost 600 students from eight towns and enroll grades 9-12 and also offer adult education.

Our 11 technology programs cover careers ranging from graphics and cosmetology to automotive and manufacturing. Our academic program is competitive and comprehensive. Starting in their junior year, students also have the ability to take advantage of our Work-based Learning program, where they can earn credit while working during the school day in their trade.

Learn more: whitney.cttech.org

A.I. Prince Technical High School has state-of-the-art classrooms, the latest instructional technology and industry-standard equipment in every shop to give students a well-rounded, 21st century education. At Prince Technical High School, students succeed in whichever path they choose.

Students are immersed in college prep academics and can choose from 15 different career fields. In addition, Prince Tech serves adult education students with a variety apprentice courses.

Learn more: prince.cttech.org

Platt Technical High School is located in Milford, Connecticut. We have over 800 students from 18 towns and enroll grades 9-12.

Students take academic and career technical education courses, but also have the opportunity to add electives to fulfill their credit requirements. In their junior year, students also have the ability to take advantage of our Work-based Learning program, where they can earn credit while working during the school day in their trade.

Learn more: platt.cttech.org

E.C. Goodwin Technical High School is located in New Britain Connecticut. We have 659 students from nine towns and enroll grades 9-12. We offer 11 career and technical education programs.

Students must take core courses, but also have the opportunity to add electives to fulfill their credit requirements. In their junior year, students also have the ability to take advantage of our Work-based Learning program, where they can earn credit while working during the school day in their trade.

Learn more: goodwin.cttech.org

In this episode, the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS) reveals the school systems Vision of a Graduate. The Vision of a Graduate outlines the most important skills and qualities CTECS students need in order to find success in career and/or college. It is our promise to students and families, and demonstrates CTECS commitment to preparing students to fulfill the state’s workforce needs. Learn what attributes CTECS stakeholders deemed most vital for graduates to have, and how CTECS will embed the Vision of a Graduate in day-to-day school life.

Have an idea for the show? Email us at CTECS@cttech.org with subject line “Talking Shop”

The 46th Annual SkillsUSA Connecticut State Leadership and Skills Conference Awards Ceremony will be streamed live at approximately 6:00pm from Meriden, CT.

The Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS) presents the 2022-2025 Strategic Operating Plan – A Skilled Workforce Starts Here.

In this video, we discuss Goal 2: Trade and Academic Programming.
CTECS endeavors to develop programming, career pathways, and experiential opportunities, aligned to industry needs, that cultivate workforce-ready students.

The CTECS Masonry Program prepares students for employment in construction trades directly related to the use of mortar, block, tile, and slate. The program involves the understanding and use of materials such as mortar and bonding agents, the related hand and power tools of the trade, laying and aligning brick, block, and tile, the building of archways, fireplaces, chimneys, wall works, and interior finishing. As students advance they are exposed to job cost estimations, use and application of more advanced materials and techniques and production work for outside customers.

Masonry Pathways Include:
-Residential Masonry Construction
-Commercial Masonry Construction
-Bricklayer/Block Layer
-Tile Installer
-Terrazzo Installer
-Two or four year degree in Construction Management
-Concrete Installations (Foundations/Decks)
-Estimator

Learn more: https://www.cttech.org/programs/career-and-technical-education/architecture-and-construction/masonry/

Oliver Wolcott Technical High School celebrated Black History Month with recipes adapted from popular soul food and cajun food cookbooks. The menu included shrimp and grits, jumbalaya, fried oyster po-boys, bread pudding and many other tasty dishes.

Learn more at wolcott.cttech.org/culinary

As technology rapidly increases across all types of vehicles, so does the need to train skilled automotive technicians. In this episode, learn how Subaru-U developed an innovative educational model to introduce aspiring technicians to manufacturer-specific training. CTECS’ transportation expert Lou Camacho will share how Connecticut’s technical high schools partner with Subaru of New England to access this educational opportunity, and how trade programming is evolving to meet new technologies.

Have an idea for the show? Email us at CTECS@cttech.org with subject line “Talking Shop”

The Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS) presents the 2022-2025 Strategic Operating Plan – A Skilled Workforce Starts Here.

In this video, we discuss Goal 1: School Environment and Safety.
CTECS endeavors to provide a welcoming environment that is safe, equitable, and supportive of students' development into productive citizens with the skills necessary for success. Learn how CTECS is accomplishing this through prioritizing physical and emotional safety; student soft skill acquisition; and collaboration.

The Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS) presents the 2022-2025 Strategic Operating Plan – A Skilled Workforce Starts Here.

The plan was developed in collaboration with all CTECS stakeholders and sets a new direction for the school system. Structured around a new mission and vision, the plan defines four (4) strategic goals that will guide CTECS into the future and ensure that the system is developing a skilled workforce for the State of Connecticut.

Learn more about CTECS at cttech.org/about.

The Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS) presents the 2022-2025 Strategic Operating Plan – A Skilled Workforce Starts Here.

In this video, we discuss Goal 1: School Environment and Safety.
CTECS endeavors to provide a welcoming environment that is safe, equitable, and supportive of students' development into productive citizens with the skills necessary for success. Learn how CTECS is accomplishing this through prioritizing physical and emotional safety; student soft skill acquisition; and collaboration.

In this episode of Talking Shop with CTECS, U.S. Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona proves that anything is possible with a technical high school education. He shares his personal story from an automotive technology student at Wilcox Technical High School in Meriden, CT, to holding the highest education position in this country. Secretary Cardona also discusses how Connecticut’s technical high schools are meeting the workforce development needs in our country when many education systems are not.

Have an idea for the show? Email us at CTECS@cttech.org with subject line “Talking Shop”

The Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS) presents the 2022-2025 Strategic Operating Plan – A Skilled Workforce Starts Here.

The plan was developed in collaboration with all CTECS stakeholders and sets a new direction for the school system. Structured around a new mission and vision, the plan defines four (4) strategic goals that will guide CTECS into the future and ensure that the system is developing a skilled workforce for the State of Connecticut.

Learn more about CTECS at cttech.org/about.

In this episode of Talking Shop, CTECS Interim Executive Director Dr. Ellen Solek discusses biliteracy in a global economy with Margaret Ortiz-Sanchez, CTECS’ Supervisor of World Languages, English Learners Program and the Seal of Biliteracy. Looking through a Career and Technical Education (CTE) lens, our guest shares CTE classroom strategies for English Learners, ways districts can celebrate their biliterate student population, the benefits of career tech ed in language acquisition, and more.

Have an idea for the show? Email us at CTECS@cttech.org with subject line “Talking Shop”

Solicita tu espacio hoy en cttech.org/admissions

Oliver Wolcott Technical High School celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with student-crafted recipes that represented their various cultural backgrounds. The menu included birria tacos, tripleta boricua, ceviche, empanadas boricua, flan, tres leches and many other tasty dishes.

Learn more at wolcott.cttech.org/culinary

Learn more and apply at cttech.org/careers

Learn more and apply at cttech.org/admissions

CTECS Interim Executive Director Dr. Ellen Solek talks with two founding members of the CTECS C.A.R.E.S. Council about the importance of forming relationships in a school community. In this episode, learn about social-emotional learning strategies that can be used in the classroom, at home, and in the community that lead to positive outcomes for students and staff.

Have an idea for the show? Email us at CTECS@cttech.org with subject line “Talking Shop”

A.I. Prince Technical High School Masonry students are currently finishing up over a year long production project in Bloomfield, Connecticut. The project includes a 100-foot retaining wall, staircase, patio and walkway.

In order of appearance:
Jerome Grant, Masonry Department Head
Ismael Valdivieso, 11th grade Masonry Student
Antwonne Blue, 11th grade Masonry Student
Marcus Duffus, 11th grade Masonry Student

A.I. Prince Technical High School is located in Hartford, CT and serves grades 9-12. Learn more: prince.cttech.org.

Howell Cheney Technical High School is located in Manchester Connecticut. We have over 600 students from 26 towns and enroll grades 9-12 and also offer adult education.

Our students can select a career technical education program from a catalog of 11 different technologies. Highlights of our technology curriculum are the Diesel and Welding Technology shops.

Find out more at cheney.cttech.org

The new Platt Technical High School is officially open!

A grand opening for the new location was held on Tuesday morning, where special guests included Senator Richard Blumenthal, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, State Representative Kathy Kennedy, and Milford Mayor Benjamin Blake. In her remarks, Congresswoman Rose DeLauro stated, “it’s institutions like Platt Tech that give me hope for the future.”

The new building is approximately 237,000 square feet, accommodates 12 career and technical education programs and features energy-efficient technology.

CTECS aims to meet Connecticut’s workforce needs by building the future through exemplary trade and academic programming. As CTECS Executive Director Dr. Ellen Solek stated, "The building, as beautiful as it is, doesn't mean a whole lot until we fill it. And we are filling it with purpose, pride and with a mission. Our mission is to contribute, like no one else, to Connecticut's workforce both now and in the future."

Special thanks to Governor Lamont’s office; Office of Policy and Management; Department of Administrative Services; Office of School Construction Grants and Review; the State Department of Education; Drummey, Rosane, Anderson, Inc.; KBE Building Corporation; and the Morganti Group, Inc., for their continued support and the hard work that went into this project.

Visit platt.cttech.org for more information on Platt Technical High School.

Oliver Wolcott Technical High School is located in Torrington, Connecticut. We have 650 students from 30 towns and enroll grades 9-12. We have a rich tradition of serving the Northwest Corner for over fifty years. We are dedicated to providing our students with an education that combines rigorous academic study and the excitement of learning a technology. This dual education allows our students, upon graduation, the opportunity to go onto college or have the skills necessary for immediate employment. We want our students college-ready and able to graduate with a skill, an option that can boost their prospects for success. We have a long list successful graduates in colleges as well as many graduates working in area businesses. We have alumni who are doctors, lawyers, company presidents, scientists, teachers and a mayor who benefited from this unique educational experience.

Learn more: wolcott.cttech.org

W.F. Kaynor Technical High School has a rich tradition of serving the Greater Waterbury area for over fifty years. We are dedicated to providing our students with an education that combines rigorous academic study and the excitement of learning a technology.

The dual education allows our students, upon graduation, the opportunity to go onto college or have the skills necessary for immediate employment. We want our students college-ready and able to graduate with a skill. We have a long list of successful graduates in colleges as well as many graduates working in area businesses. We have alumni who are doctors, lawyers, company presidents, scientists, teachers and a mayor who benefited from this unique educational experience.

Learn more: kaynor.cttech.org

Bristol Technical Education Center provides a diverse student population with a safe environment that promotes community interaction and student learning, which is engaging and prepares them for business and industry as entry-level professionals.

Adult, eleventh- and twelfth-grade students come here from 42 towns to learn a technology and become a part of our family-like community. Adult students (high school diploma or GED required) attend our full-time day programs to earn a 900-hour technology certificate. Unlike our other technical high schools, Bristol TEC students remain a part of their sending schools and can participate in sporting events or musical groups. If attending Bristol TEC senior year, students will receive a diploma from their sending school and still participate in our year-end certificate ceremony. We offer the best of both worlds.

We offer seven trade technologies including:
Automotive Technology
Culinary Arts
Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering Technology
Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
Precision Machining Technology
Welding and Metal Fabrication
Health Technology

A.I. Prince Technical High School has state-of-the-art classrooms, the latest instructional technology and industry-standard equipment in every shop to give students a well-rounded, 21st century education. At Prince Technical High School, students succeed in whichever path they choose.

Students are immersed in college prep academics and can choose from 15 different career fields. In addition, Prince Tech serves adult education students with a variety apprentice courses.

Learn more: prince.cttech.org

Windham Technical High School is located in Willimantic, Connecticut. We have 500 students from 23 towns and enroll grades 9-12. As a school of choice, Windham Technical High School draws from 23 different communities in Eastern Connecticut. We offer 9 career-directed, trade technologies: Automotive, Carpentry, Criminal Justice, Culinary Arts, Electrical, Health Technology, HVAC, Information Systems Technology, and Precision Machining Technology.

Learn more: windham.cttech.org

Norwich Technical High School is located in Southeastern Connecticut. We have almost 700 students from 48 towns and enroll grades 9-12. We also offer adult education.

Our 12 technology programs cover the following clusters for grades 9-12: Construction, Hospitality, Health Occupations, Transportation and Technology. Our academic program is competitive and comprehensive. Students must take core courses, but also have the opportunity to add electives to fulfill their credit requirements. In their junior year, students also have the ability to take advantage of our work-based learning program, where they can earn credit while working during the school day in their trade.

Norwich Technical High School offers extra-curricular activities in athletics, clubs and service organizations. We have a full-service restaurant open to the public, a full-service hair salon and a gift shop.

Learn more: norwich.cttech.org

Platt Technical High School is located in Milford, Connecticut. We have over 800 students from 18 towns and enroll grades 9-12.

Students take academic and career technical education courses, but also have the opportunity to add electives to fulfill their credit requirements. In their junior year, students also have the ability to take advantage of our Work-based Learning program, where they can earn credit while working during the school day in their trade.

Learn more: platt.cttech.org

CTECS Interim Superintendent Dr. Ellen Solek sits down to speak with Vinal Technical High School student Krista Meehan, junior in the Carpentry program, and Sara Bruno, Sustainable Architecture Department Head (DH) at Platt Technical High School.

In this episode, Dr. Solek and guests discuss their experiences as women in CTE, including the challenges, assumptions, and advantages of being a woman in male-dominated industries.

Palace Theatre 5:30PM EST Friday June 17 2022

Dozens of parents, students, employers, and industry partners gathered at Oliver Wolcott Technical High School in Torrington, Connecticut for a Career Signing Event and celebration. 27 seniors from Oliver Wolcott Tech were honored as they signed contracts for full-time positions after graduation with their future employers, all of which they’ve worked with through Work-Based Learning.