The CTE Experience with Troy Long

In this episode of FocusED, Joe and T.J. interview Troy Long, author of The CTE Experience.Troy makes the case that CTE is not an alternative pathway—it’s one of the most powerful ways to prepare students for both college and careers. Drawing on more than two decades in education, he explains how high-quality CTE programs create opportunity, transform communities, and redefine student success.Troy says one of the biggest misconceptions about CTE is that it’s only for students who aren’t college bound. He explains that today’s programs include dual enrollment, industry credentials, articulation agreements, and college credit that allow students to graduate with a significant head start on postsecondary education while gaining valuable workplace experience.He argues that administrators must move beyond outdated perceptions of CTE and instead build pathways that align with workforce demands and student interests. According to Troy, when schools intentionally connect education to real careers, students graduate with more options, less debt, and stronger earning potential.Troy emphasizes that CTE succeeds because it answers one of education’s biggest questions: Why does this matter? He explains that hands-on learning, authentic projects, and industry connections help students see the relevance of their learning while increasing engagement, attendance, and motivation.He encourages elementary and middle school leaders to begin career exploration much earlier through exploratory programs, entrepreneurship experiences, and employability skills. Troy believes career awareness shouldn’t start in high school—it should grow alongside students throughout their educational journey.Looking ahead, Troy says schools must continuously evolve alongside industry. He discusses the growing impact of artificial intelligence, the importance of regularly updating programs based on workforce needs, and why strong partnerships with colleges, employers, and advisory boards are essential to keeping CTE relevant.Troy closes with a challenge for every educator: help change the narrative around Career and Technical Education. He believes schools, policymakers, and communities all share the responsibility of promoting CTE as an equal pathway that prepares students for meaningful careers, continued education, and lifelong success.This episode is sponsored by Bullseye. If you're walkthroughs aren't improving instruction fast enough, you need Bullseye.