ACTE Postsecondary CTE Summit 2026

In an era when many states are focused on lowering safety standards in the name of deregulation, how can CTE educators advocate for rigorous program standards, strong industry engagement, and a focus on life safety? As the trades workforce continues to inch closer to retirement, what can your program do to ensure we don't lower the bar for the next generation of trades professionals? Ultimately, how does a balanced regulatory approach help protect the future of CTE trade programs? This session will highlight key steps educators can take to work with administrators, industry, and policymakers to help ensure that CTE trade programs continue to be treated as premier educational opportunities. Attendees will walk away with key talking points, resources for their classrooms, and better advocacy strategies to help their programs strong, students engaged, and the public safe.