Teach CTE!
What is Career and Technical Education?
Career and Technical Education (CTE) in Arizona provides students with hands-on, career-
focused learning that prepares them for both college and the workforce. Arizona’s CTE
programs are offered through high schools, career and technical education districts
(CTEDs), and community colleges, combining academic knowledge with technical and
employability skills across diverse industries such as health sciences, engineering,
information technology, and skilled trades.
CTE emphasizes real-world experience, often through work-based learning, industry
certifications, and Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs). The goal is to
help students graduate with the skills, confidence, and credentials needed to succeed in
high-demand careers and contribute to Arizona’s economy.
What is Pima JTED?
Pima JTED (Joint Technical Education District) is a public CTE district in southern Arizona
that provides tuition-free, hands-on programs for high school students, leading to high-
demand careers and college pathways. Serving students from more than a dozen partner
districts, Pima JTED offers over 60 programs in areas such as healthcare, engineering,
automotive, information technology, and public safety.
Through partnerships with local employers and colleges, Pima JTED equips students with
industry certifications, real-world experience, and professional skills, preparing them for
success in both the workforce and higher education.
Which CTE Programs Do We Offer?
Profile of a Potential CTE Teacher / Day in the Life
A day in the life of a CTE teacher is filled with purpose, creativity, and connection. Each day
begins with designing and delivering curriculum aligned with industry standards, ensuring
that what students learn reflects real-world practices. Lessons are hands-on and engaging,
helping students apply academic knowledge while developing technical and professional
skills such as teamwork, communication, reliability, and problem-solving.
Throughout the day, CTE teachers work side-by-side with students, preparing them for
industry certifications, internships, and future careers. Every interaction is an opportunity to
mentor students, build confidence, and guide them toward discovering their unique career
paths.
CTE teachers also collaborate with local businesses and industries to keep programs
current and relevant, providing students with real-world experiences and industry
connections.
At the heart of it all is a genuine love for working with high school students—their energy,
curiosity, and potential. This joy, combined with a deep desire to make a difference,
transforms a CTE classroom into a dynamic environment where futures are built and
communities grow stronger.
What is the Process for Becoming a Certified CTE Teacher?
In Arizona, there are multiple pathways to become a certified CTE teacher, including Option A
and Option C.
- Option A is designed for those with a strong academic background. Candidates hold
a Bachelor’s degree in their CTE field, complete specialized coursework, and have at
least 240 hours of verified work experience. Within three years of certification, they
complete additional professional knowledge coursework in instructional methods
and classroom management. - Option C is for experienced professionals entering education from industry. Candidates
demonstrate 6,000 hours of verified work experience in their field and complete
professional knowledge coursework within three years to gain the skills needed to
support student learning.
For both options, Pima JTED provides the coursework free of charge, and the hiring school
district releases the teacher and provides a substitute, totaling about 6–7 days of training
per school year. These pathways ensure CTE teachers bring a combination of real-world
expertise and instructional skill, preparing students for certifications, internships, and
high-demand careers.
Benefits of Teaching CTE in Arizona
- Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS): Secure, state-managed retirement plan.
- Generous time off: Approximately 70 days per school year, including federal holidays, fall break, winter break, spring break, and summer vacation.
- Rewarding work: Make a meaningful difference by helping students explore careers, gain real-world skills, and achieve economic independence.
- Healthcare benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for teachers and eligible family members.
- Job stability: Strong demand for skilled CTE teachers provides a secure and consistent career path.
- Professional growth: Opportunities for continued training, certifications, and collaboration with local businesses and industry partners.
- Impact on the community: Preparing students for high-demand careers contributes directly to the local workforce and economy
