This September is officially designated as “National Workforce Development Month,” following last month’s Senate passing of bipartisan resolution S.Res.304. The resolution explains workforce development as the education, training and career advancement of the country’s workforce, and raises workforce development as pivotal to competing in the global economy. 
Career Technical Education (CTE) is called out in the resolution as a vital component of workforce development. It is noted that CTE participation decreases the risk of dropping out of high school, as well as increases high school graduation rates. The resolution also shares that the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V) supports high quality CTE programs by providing academic and technical skills to 12 million learners.
The resolution was introduced by Senators Diane Feinstein (D-CA) and Mike Enzi (R-WY), as well as Co-Chairs of the Senate CTE Caucus, Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Todd Young (R-IN). In total, 29 Democratic and Republican senators co-sponsored this resolution.