Conroe ISD -

February is National Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the vital role CTE plays in preparing all students for success after graduation. CTE in Conroe ISD is designed for students pursuing any postsecondary pathway whether entering the workforce directly, attending a technical school, enrolling in a community college, or continuing on to a university. Through hands-on learning, leadership development, and real-world experiences, CTE equips students with the academic knowledge, technical skills, and professional competencies needed to thrive in college, careers, and life.

Today, more than 25,000 students, approximately 75% of students in grades 7–12 are enrolled in at least one CTE course across the district. This level of participation reflects both student interest and the breadth of opportunities available. At the foundation of our CTE pathway is General Employability, an introductory course serving over 4,300 seventh-grade students, where learners explore all CTE programs of study that will be available to them, while developing essential career and college readiness skills including communication, teamwork, budgeting, problem solving, and future planning.

Conroe ISD proudly offers 26 Programs of Study and over 140 CTE course offerings, intentionally aligned to workforce demands and postsecondary pathways. 

Industry-Aligned Facilities and Real-World Learning

Conroe ISD CTE programs are supported by modern, industry-aligned facilities that allow students to train using the same tools, equipment, and environments found in today’s workforce. These learning spaces include commercial kitchens supporting culinary and catering operations; fully equipped welding labs; comprehensive automotive facilities with paint and refinishing booths; professional-grade graphic design space equipment featuring large-format poster printers and screen-printing equipment; and cosmetology laboratories designed to mirror professional salon environments. These facilities ensure students develop technical skills in settings that closely simulate real-world workplaces.

Beyond facilities, Conroe ISD is deeply committed to authentic, hands-on learning and work-based experiences that connect classroom instruction to real careers. Health Science students participate in internships within local medical offices and healthcare facilities, gaining valuable clinical exposure and professional experience. Education and Training students operate an on-campus preschool laboratory, serving children of campus staff and allowing students to apply instructional strategies, classroom management, and early childhood development practices in a real-world setting.

Additionally, several CTE programs operate student-run businesses that provide meaningful in-district work-based learning opportunities, including catering services, floral services, graphic design and media services, welding and fabrication, carpentry services, and cosmetology services. Through these enterprises, students gain experience in customer service, project management, budgeting, marketing, and quality control—simulating real business operations while serving the district community.

A defining strength of our program is that industry-based certifications are aligned to every Program of Study, and Conroe ISD covers the cost of certification preparation and exams for students enrolled in those courses—removing barriers and expanding access to meaningful credentials prior to graduation.

Innovation, Partnerships, and Expanded Access

Innovation continues to be a hallmark of CTE in Conroe ISD. This year, the district implemented Transfr VR technology across all junior high campuses for students enrolled in General Employability. Through immersive virtual reality simulations, students can explore over 58 high-demand careers across all career clusters, providing safe, engaging exposure to career pathways.

CTE opportunities are also available through Conroe Virtual School, expanding access and flexibility for our virtual students. Postsecondary readiness is strengthened through partnerships such as our dual credit Automotive Technology program with Lone Star College.

Conroe ISD values strong business and industry partnerships and regularly collaborates with local employers to provide guest speakers, mentorship, industry insight, and real-world learning opportunities. These partnerships ensure curriculum relevance and help students understand current workforce expectations.

Leadership, Competition, and CTSO Excellence

Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) are a cornerstone of Career and Technical Education in Conroe ISD, providing students with leadership development, technical skill application, and competitive experiences that extend well beyond the classroom. Our students actively participate in all major CTSOs, including FFA, FCCLA, DECA, TAFE, FBLA, BPA, and SkillsUSA. Through these organizations, students have opportunities to earn state and national awards, compete for scholarships, and gain recognition that supports their postsecondary goals.

Conroe ISD is proud to have student officers serving at various leadership levels, as well as educators holding leadership positions within CTSOs. Our students consistently advance through competitions and compete at the district, area, state and national levels, representing the district with professionalism, skill, and leadership. In addition, students have opportunities to engage in high-level leadership experiences, including advocating for Career and Technical Education at the U.S. Capitol, further developing their confidence, communication skills, and civic engagement.

Investing in People and Future Success

With more than 250 dedicated CTE teachers, Conroe ISD supports both student and educator growth through professional development, instructional coaching, and competitive opportunities. Additionally, over 650 students participate in high school ROTC programs, further expanding leadership development and career preparation pathways.

As we celebrate National Career and Technical Education Month, we are proud of the depth, quality, and impact of CTE across Conroe ISD. From early career exploration to industry certifications, leadership development, work-based learning, and national recognition, our CTE programs ensure students graduate future-ready.

We are proud of our students, grateful for our educators, and thankful for the community and business partners who support Career and Technical Education in Conroe ISD.

To learn more about CTE, please visit https://www.conroeisd.net/o/cisd/page/career-technical-education-cte  and follow us on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/CTECISD.