Closing the Gap: Career Clusters and Workforce Returns in Texas

• In Event: Career and Technical Education Student Outcomes

Abstract

This study examines the effectiveness of Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways in Texas, focusing on workforce entry and wage outcomes for students directly entering the labor market following high school graduation. Using statewide longitudinal data from 2010 to 2020, the study analyzes CTE participation, concentration, and completion across career clusters and student groups. The research reveals significant wage disparities across CTE clusters with certain fields, such as Transportation, yielding positive wage returns for all student groups. While others, like Education, showing negative wage impacts for socioeconomically disadvantaged students. By linking CTE participation to demographic factors and workforce outcomes, the study provides crucial insights into the efficacy of CTE programs, highlighting the need for aligned workforce preparation strategies in education policy.

Authors

• Angela Crevar, Mercer University

• Jennifer A. Freeman, Texas Tech University

• Jacob Kirksey, Texas Tech University