MARQUETTE — To shine a spotlight on the power of hands-on learning that prepares Michiganders for in-demand, good-paying careers, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer joins the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and the Michigan Department of Education in proclaiming February as Career and Technical Education Month.

With nearly 500,000 job openings projected in Michigan each year through 2032, Career and Technical Education offers high school and college students hands-on learning experiences that can be applied to real-world training and career pathways. Throughout the month of February, individuals of all ages, including students and those seeking new career opportunities, are encouraged to explore programs that prepare them for successful career entry, advancement and/or continuing education.

“Career and Technical Education programs offer Michiganders tangible skills they can use to land good-paying, in-demand jobs in growing fields and trades like plumbing, welding, and more,” said Whitmer. “I’m proud of the progress we’ve made through ongoing investments in Career and Technical Education and the Going PRO Talent fund, as well as our efforts to create 23,000 apprenticeships. But we’re just getting started. This Career and Technical Education Month, let’s keep working together to create opportunity, grow our economy, and help more people ‘make it’ in Michigan.”