10 signatures reached
To: Utah Legislators and Policymakers
CTE Works Hard for Utah - Let's Keep It That Way
Utah’s students are the builders of our future—but they can only succeed if we give them the tools to launch. Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Work-Based Learning (WBL) programs do exactly that. They turn classrooms into launchpads—connecting learning with doing, ideas with experience, and ambition with opportunity. When students work side by side with employers, they gain real-world skills, confidence, and direction.
Work-based learning internships provided over $6,000,000 in economic impact to local Utah businesses in 2024-25. These programs don’t just prepare students for life after school; they power the workforce that keeps Utah’s economy strong. Students graduate not just ready to work—but ready to thrive.
Yet right now, that future is at risk. Proposed funding cuts threaten to dismantle programs that give thousands of Utah students their first real shot at success. Without these opportunities, students lose pathways to purpose, businesses lose access to skilled talent, and Utah loses a critical advantage in a competitive economy. We cannot afford to move backward. The return on investment is clear: stronger schools, stronger industries, and stronger communities.
Protecting CTE and WBL isn’t about preserving programs—it’s about preserving potential. It’s about ensuring every student, from every corner of our state, has access to an education that works. For students. For employers. For Utah. Join us in standing up for the programs that prepare our youth, power our economy, and secure our shared future. Because Career and Technical Education works hard for Utah—now it’s time for Utah to work hard for it.
Work-based learning internships provided over $6,000,000 in economic impact to local Utah businesses in 2024-25. These programs don’t just prepare students for life after school; they power the workforce that keeps Utah’s economy strong. Students graduate not just ready to work—but ready to thrive.
Yet right now, that future is at risk. Proposed funding cuts threaten to dismantle programs that give thousands of Utah students their first real shot at success. Without these opportunities, students lose pathways to purpose, businesses lose access to skilled talent, and Utah loses a critical advantage in a competitive economy. We cannot afford to move backward. The return on investment is clear: stronger schools, stronger industries, and stronger communities.
Protecting CTE and WBL isn’t about preserving programs—it’s about preserving potential. It’s about ensuring every student, from every corner of our state, has access to an education that works. For students. For employers. For Utah. Join us in standing up for the programs that prepare our youth, power our economy, and secure our shared future. Because Career and Technical Education works hard for Utah—now it’s time for Utah to work hard for it.
Why is this important?
By supporting Career & Technical Education (CTE) and Work-based Learning (WBL), we provide students with valuable real-world experiences that help them explore career options and develop critical skills needed for success beyond the classroom. These programs also create a direct pipeline of well-prepared talent for local businesses, strengthening our economy and community ties.
Signing the petition demonstrates a shared commitment to investing in students' futures, supporting effective partnerships between schools and industry, and ensuring that our young people are equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Signing the petition demonstrates a shared commitment to investing in students' futures, supporting effective partnerships between schools and industry, and ensuring that our young people are equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world.
How it will be delivered
The petition will be delivered in person and via email.