Governor Greg Gianforte visited Park High School in Livingston, Mont., on April 10 to meet with students participating in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program.
The visit underscores ongoing efforts to provide Montana students with practical skills for future employment and workforce development. CTE programs are designed to offer hands-on experience that can help prepare students for various careers.
“Everybody wins when we provide our kids with the tools they need to thrive,” Gianforte said. “Students at Park High and across Montana are getting the hands-on experience they need through Career and Technical Education programs to help prepare them for their future and build a stronger workforce.”
During his tour of Park High School, Gianforte observed classes including woodshop, auto shop, greenhouse operations, journalism, and work-based education (WBE). He spoke with FFA students about their projects such as building chairs, sheds, and chicken coops. In journalism class, students interviewed the governor using skills learned in their coursework.
Gianforte also met juniors and seniors involved in job shadowing local businesses through WBE classes. Some of these students are working toward becoming Certified Nursing Assistants or planning entrepreneurial ventures like opening a food truck.
Since taking office, Gianforte has promoted trades education by authorizing all school districts in Montana to establish individualized work-based learning paths for students beginning in 2021. In 2023, more than 3,300 high school students received college credit through CTE programs—a record number for the state. Additionally, after a rule change supported by Gianforte adjusted the journeyman-to-apprentice ratio from two-to-one to one-to-two, there was a reported 25 percent increase in apprenticeships available through Montana’s Registered Apprenticeship Program; currently over 2,700 apprentices are enrolled statewide.
Earlier this year, Gianforte recognized February as CTE Month by issuing a proclamation highlighting the importance of hands-on learning opportunities for preparing students for high-demand careers.
