Career and Technical Education

The Career and Technical Education (CTE) Initiative supported by the Trustees Education Initiative (TEI) at the University of Wyoming is dedicated to increasing the number of CTE teachers to support career opportunities and meet workforce demands in Wyoming. By retaining local talent, supporting businesses, and promoting educational advancement, the initiative contributes to the economic and social stability of the state. The program aligns with the University’s mission and Presidential strategic plans, recognizing that CTE is crucial for economic development and a skilled workforce.

Learn More About CTE

Strengthening Career and Technical Education

Phase 1

The College of Education conducted extensive statewide visits to assess CTE needs and develop a strategy to address the critical shortage of qualified CTE teachers impacting high school programs.
A CTE Outreach Specialist position was established and filled to carry out future projects.

Collaborative efforts were undertaken with business, industry, legislators, and community colleges to address the CTE teacher shortage through visits, conversations, and partnerships.

The College of Education (CoE) launched a bridge introduction course in CTE in partnership with community colleges and the Wyoming Department of Education.

Jessie Dafoe - Owner: Dafoe Strategies
Lucas Dow - Co-Chair: Sheridan County School District #2, Vice Principal
Jason Eggemeyer - Department Head, Engineering Technology and Design, Casper College
Joseph Feiler - Retired CTE Educator, Welding Technology, Natrona County School District #1
Megan Garnhart - CTE Educator, Computer Science, Sheridan High School
Travis Grubb - Dean of CTE, Gillette College
Robert Hill - Co-Chair: UW Professor of Practice/CTE Outreach Specialist
Joseph Martinez - CTE Educator, Niobrara County School District
Dr. Jenna Shim - John P. "Jack" Elbogen Dean of the UW College of Education
Bruce Thoren - Superintendent, Fremont County School District #24

Phase 2

A CTE Advisory Board was formed with stakeholders from school districts and community colleges.
In spring 2024, the CoE submitted a proposal for the Teacher Quality Partnership Grant from the US Department of Education to continue and expand its CTE efforts.

Development of a bridge course for high school students in collaboration with Wyoming school districts is underway.
A recruitment strategy from Wyoming high schools aims to bolster community college enrollment in CTE programs, leveraging community college resources and expertise more closely.

In collaboration with the Wyoming Community College Commission, the synchronization of advising between UW College of Education and Wyoming community colleges in CTE-related programs is in its development phase.
This new model aims to more efficiently identify and support promising CTE teacher candidates.

Phase 2 promises further expansion and collaboration in addressing the CTE teacher shortage, demonstrating continued commitment to educational advancement and economic growth in Wyoming. Lessons from Phase 2 will inform Phase 3.