Refers to educational programs or skills-based teaching that provide hands-on, realistic experience where students learn technical and employable skills required for specific jobs or fields of work and often specialize in the skilled trades, applied sciences, modern technologies, and career preparation. CTE programs are typically developed with input from industry partners to be responsive to workforce needs.  CTE is also referred to as work-based learning (WBL) or career-connected learning (CCL). CTE is often called vocational education, though CTE is the preferred term more recently in the U.S.

CTE is often offered in middle schools, high schools, community colleges, and other postsecondary institutions and industry certification programs. At the secondary level, CTE is frequently provided by regional centers that serve students from multiple schools or school districts. Many states have regional centers or statewide networks that operate as part of the public-school system.

CTE programs typically offer both academic and career-oriented courses. Many provide students with the opportunity to gain work experience through internships, job shadowing, on-the-job training, and industry-certification opportunities. Depending on their size, configuration, location, and mission, CTE provides a wide range of learning experiences spanning many career tracks, fields, and industries (e.g., automotive technology, construction, plumbing, electrical contracting, agriculture, architecture, culinary arts, fashion design, filmmaking, forestry, engineering, healthcare, personal training, robotics, and veterinary medicine).