Teaching CTE in Michigan

Shape the Future Workforce

Career and Technical Education (CTE) teachers do more than teach, they prepare students for high-skill, high-wage, and high-demand careers. Whether your expertise is in healthcare, manufacturing, construction, information technology, business, education, public safety, or another career field, your industry experience can make a lasting impact in the classroom.
Michigan offers multiple pathways to become a CTE teacher, making it possible for experienced professionals to transition into education while sharing the knowledge they’ve gained throughout their careers.

If you are currently in a teacher preparation program, be sure to talk with your academic advisor about how you might add a CTE endorsement to your teaching certificate.

If you are working in industry and considering a career change, you could use your recent and relevant work experience to obtain a CTE teaching certificate or qualify for an Annual Career Authorization.

What Makes a Great CTE Teacher?

Successful CTE teachers are:

• Passionate about their career field and student success.
• Skilled professionals with real-world industry experience.
• Effective communicators and mentors.
• Lifelong learners who stay current with industry trends and technology.
• Committed to preparing students for both college and careers.

What Do You Need to Become a CTE Teacher?

While requirements vary by career pathway, most aspiring CTE teachers will need:

Industry Experience

Michigan values hands-on experience. Most CTE teaching certifications require recent, documented work experience in the occupational area you plan to teach.

Appropriate Credentials

Depending on the program area, you may need:

• An industry-recognized certification or professional license.
• An associate or bachelor’s degree (required for some program areas).
• Additional education or training based on your occupational field.

Michigan CTE Authorization

To teach a state-approved CTE program, educators must meet the requirements established by the Michigan Department of Education’s Office of Career and Technical Education (OCTE). Your pathway may include obtaining an Interim Occupational Certificate before earning a Standard Occupational Certificate.

Background Check

Like all Michigan educators, CTE teachers must successfully complete required fingerprinting and criminal background checks.

Professional Learning

New CTE teachers participate in ongoing professional learning to strengthen instructional practices, classroom management, student assessment, curriculum development, and career readiness strategies.

Career Fields You Can Teach

Michigan offers CTE programs in many career pathways, including:

• Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources
• Architecture & Construction
• Arts, Audio/Video Technology & Communications
• Business Management & Administration
• Education & Training
• Finance
• Health Sciences
• Hospitality & Tourism
• Human Services
• Information Technology
• Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security
• Manufacturing
• Marketing
• STEM
• Transportation, Distribution & Logistics

Before You Get Started

Consider these questions:

• Do you have recent work experience in your industry?
• What career pathway best matches your background?
• Do you hold any professional licenses or industry certifications?
• Are you interested in teaching full-time or part-time?
• Would you enjoy mentoring and preparing the next generation of skilled professionals?