Major companies such as Google, Microsoft and Southwest Airlines are highlighting the importance of social-emotional learning in schools to prepare students for the workforce. Google values self-awareness and responsible decision-making, Microsoft emphasizes emotional intelligence and adaptability, and Southwest looks for communication and teamwork skills.

"Newark Chops," a new reality series produced by Newark Public Schools, features students from Newark Vocational High School's Culinary Arts Academy. The show highlights their culinary skills and teamwork, preparing them for careers in the restaurant industry.

More than 320 10th-graders attended the Career Opportunities Expo at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, exploring various career paths through panel sessions and hands-on activities. The event, organized by the Marinette Menominee Area Chamber of Commerce, featured professionals from fields such as engineering, health care and skilled trades.

Paxton, Neb., FFA member Landon Drews organized a dryland corn test plot and a harvest day event to educate students and community members about farming practices. The project, supported by local businesses, school officials and his family, showcased the importance of collaboration and hands-on agricultural learning.

Common Application data reveals a 5% increase in first-year applicants, with significant growth among first-generation and low-income students. The data show that colleges are prioritizing diversity and authenticity, prompting students to focus more on personal stories and unique perspectives rather than a checklist of achievements.

Cleveland State University is the latest institution to launch integrated degree programs. Six of the 11 will pair computer science with another major as part of a consortium guided by the Center for Inclusive Computing. The initiative aims to meet workforce demand, include input from local employers and attract a more diverse student body.

PepsiCo's strategy for managing its workforce effectively depends on creating an inclusive culture, doing as much as possible with technology and prioritizing employee well-being, says CEO Ramon Laguarta. The company says its focus areas have led to better retention, employee engagement and recognition.

More employers, including the San Diego Police Department, Qualtrics, and Johnson & Johnson, are offering onsite daycare to attract and retain employees, addressing the challenge of finding affordable child care. This initiative provides convenience and cost savings for employees, but the high cost of maintaining these services and the lack of public funding pose challenges, causing some experts to suggest that subsidies for offsite care are a more sustainable solution.

As ACTE approaches its 100th anniversary celebration at CareerTech VISION 2026, we are thrilled to unveil an engaging way to commemorate our storied history. From Jan. 8, 2025, through Dec. 2, 2026, our CTE community will enjoy the Centennial Trivia Challenge: 100 Questions for 100 Years. Crafted by ACTE Historian and Past President Gary Moore, this trivia challenge will feature one question each week, culminating in a total of 100 trivia questions to honor 100 years of ACTE's impact on CTE. Learn more.

Career and technical educators, do you want to see your students' designs featured on ACTE's official 100th anniversary merchandise? Encourage your students to enter our student design contest and be a part of this historic celebration! Submit artwork by May 1. Learn more.