Alignment in Perceptions and the Local Trends in the Labor Market Demands of Technical Careers

• In Event: Student Success Outcomes in Career and Technical Education

Abstract

Using survey data collected from five metropolitan statistical areas, coupled by local labor market data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the current study examines individuals’ knowledge about the local demands and salary of technical careers, an important information for developing effective Career and Technical Education CTE) programs designed for the local in-demand technical workforce. We also explore the demographic, socioeconomic, CTE experiences and other educational characteristics that are associated with individuals’ knowledge about the labor market trends. We found that individuals underestimated the salary of jobs in technical industries, except for jobs in health science. The alignment between individuals’ knowledge and local data varied by region, type of occupation, and demographic and educational background characteristics.

Authors

• Sugene Cho-Baker, Educational Testing Service

• Margarita Olivera Aguilar, Educational Testing Service