What does it take to become a CTE teacher? For these New York educators, it started with a love of their trade – and a desire to make a difference. From culinary arts to construction, agriculture to cosmetology, watch as real CTE teachers share what inspired them to teach, their impact on students, and why they believe in the power of hands-on learning. Whether you're already in education or considering a career change, this video shows what it means to Teach CTE.
What kind of impact can a CTE teacher make? In this second video of our Teach CTE series, hear directly from New York educators about the power of teaching Career and Technical Education — and the life-changing effect it has on students and teachers alike. Whether it’s introducing students to careers they never considered, building their confidence, or helping them discover a passion, these teachers are shaping lives every day. From agriculture to criminal justice, construction to cosmetology, see how CTE teachers make a real difference — and why you should consider joining them.
Why Teach CTE? 10 Reasons to Consider a Career in CTE. 
Career and technical education (CTE) teachers prepare students for careers across a wide range of industries and occupations, imparting academic, technical, and employability skills and ensuring students’ lifelong success. A career as a CTE teacher can help you meet your personal and professional goals and:
Make a difference in your community. CTE educators develop the next generation of highly skilled professionals, leaders, and innovators for critical jobs and industries, sparking economic growth and impacting the lives of countless individuals, families and communities in a meaningful, lasting way.
Teach what you love to do. CTE educators take their passions and expertise and turn them into a career – they can spend their days teaching learners about the careers and industries they love
Prepare students for the real world. CTE educators help learners prepare for lifelong success by teaching real-world skills like problem solving, time management and communications skills, as well as the technical skills students need for high-quality jobs.
Motivate and engage students. CTE educators motivate students about learning with hands-on projects that tackle real-world challenges and use high-tech tools, from 3D printers to virtual and augmented reality simulations to mobile labs.
Benefit from work-life balance. CTE educators have a work schedule that allows for time off during holidays and over the summer, making teaching a great career for aligning with your family’s schedule.
Earn good pay and benefit packages. On average, CTE educators can make more than $60,000 per year and up to nearly $100,000, depending on years of experience, background, and the local salary scale. They can also earn benefits like health care and retirement savings.
Experience job security. There is a significant shortage of CTE educators across the country, and they are in high demand at middle schools, high schools, area technical centers, community and technical colleges, and some four-year universities. With a wide variety of jobs available, CTE educators can choose the location and age group they work with. 
Qualify for financial support. CTE educators are eligible for grants, scholarships, and loan discharge programs to help them pay for their education. People with industry experience often start in the classroom immediately, getting paid as they grow their teaching skills.
Enjoy variety. Every day as a CTE teacher is different! CTE educators are empowered to be creative as they engage students, whether in the classroom or lab, touring a worksite, or preparing students for competitive events through Career and Technical Student Organizations – the possibilities are endless.
Be a lifelong learner. CTE educators have access to continuous professional development to build their skills in education and in the career fields and industries they teach. There are also numerous opportunities to move into leadership roles.
Source: ACTEOnline
How to Teach CTE
New York offers many options and paths to assist schools and individuals to ensure that highly qualified and certified CTE teachers can teach. The NYSED Office of Teaching Initiatives provides extensive guidance on CTE Teacher Certification Requirements
A popular option in NY for those entering teaching from industry is the Transitional A Certification. The Transitional A certificate is valid for three years and allows individuals who need time to complete specific education coursework and student teaching/teaching experience requirements to work in a classroom as a certified teacher. To be eligible for the Transitional A certificate, individuals must have a commitment from a New York State school, school district, or BOCES to employ and mentor them while they complete the Initial certificate requirements.
Learn more about Transitional A Certification by viewing this webinar, Understanding the Process of Transitional A Certification for CTE Teachers and/or reviewing the Transitional A Certification FAQ.
Understanding the Process of Transitional A Certification for CTE Teachers ResourcesUnderstanding the Process of Transitional A Certification for CTE Teachers Resources - Resource Document
Certification Checklists:
In collaboration with SUNY Oswego, the CTE TAC of NY offers an immersive CTE teacher induction and coaching program, which also offers the opportunity to enroll at SUNY Oswego to earn credit toward Initial CTE Teacher Certification (9 credits, 3 courses required by the NYSED) and toward Professional CTE Teacher Certification (9 credits, 3 courses required by the NYSED).
In order to participate in this program, you must:
- Hold an Associate’s degree or higher (overall GPA 3.0) related to your CTE field or hold a transitional A teaching certificate/have a transitional A teaching certification application submitted to the NYSED's Office of Teaching Initiatives
- Be recommended to the program by your employing school district
We sincerely thank the incredible Career and Technical Education teachers who shared their stories, experiences, and passion for teaching with us. A special thank you to the administrators and staff at John Bowne High School, Capital Region BOCES, Questar III BOCES, TST BOCES, and GST BOCES – we’re grateful for your time, trust, and the work you do every day.