Federal and State Advocacy in SkillsUSA
Championing Career and Technical Education (CTE) for a Stronger Workforce
SkillsUSA is a national leader in advocating for career and technical education (CTE), ensuring that students across the country have access to high-quality training and career opportunities. Through federal and state advocacy, SkillsUSA works with policymakers, industry leaders and educators to advance CTE funding, legislation, and workforce development initiatives that support students in gaining the skills they need to succeed.
SkillsUSA National Officers and Executive Director Chelle Travis meet with Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson,
co-chair of the Congressional Career and Technical Education Caucus.
Why Advocacy Matters
A strong career and technical education system is essential for:
Bridging the Skills Gap – There are more than 650,000 open skilled jobs in the U.S., and CTE is the key to filling them.
Expanding Workforce Opportunities – CTE provides affordable, high-quality career pathways for students, including those in underserved communities.
Strengthening Economic Growth – A well-trained workforce supports American innovation, manufacturing, and infrastructure development.
Securing Federal & State Support – Advocacy ensures that CTE programs receive critical funding, resources, and industry partnerships to thrive.
Federal Advocacy: Shaping National Policy for CTE
At the federal level, SkillsUSA actively engages with Congress, the U.S. Department of Education, and other national agencies to advocate for CTE-friendly policies, including:
The Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act (Perkins V)
The Perkins Act is the largest federal funding source for CTE programs across the country.
SkillsUSA advocates for continued funding increases to support state and local CTE programs.
Workforce Development and Apprenticeships
SkillsUSA champions policies that expand apprenticeships, industry partnerships and hands-on learning experiences.
Advocates for increased investment in workforce readiness programs that prepare students for in-demand careers.
National Advocacy Days & Student Engagement
Each year, SkillsUSA students participate in the Washington Leadership Training Institute (WLTI), where they:
Meet with congressional representatives to share the impact of CTE.
Learn about the policymaking process and how they can advocate for their futures.
Strengthen leadership skills in national advocacy training sessions.
State Advocacy: Strengthening Local CTE Programs
While federal policies set the foundation for CTE, state-level advocacy is critical to ensuring local programs receive the support they need. SkillsUSA works with state policymakers, education leaders and industry partners to:
Secure Funding for CTE Programs
Advocate for state-level Perkins funding allocations that directly benefit SkillsUSA students and programs.
Push for grants and workforce development funding to expand hands-on learning opportunities.
Build Partnerships with Local Industry Leaders
Strengthen employer engagement in SkillsUSA by promoting work-based learning experiences such as internships, apprenticeships and mentorship programs.
Encourage businesses to support CTE through sponsorships, equipment donations and advisory roles.
State Capitol Advocacy Days
SkillsUSA students and leaders meet with state legislators to:
Share success stories about how CTE transforms students’ futures.
Advocate for state-level policies that increase funding, resources and industry involvement in CTE.
Participate in leadership training and public speaking opportunities.
The Future of Advocacy in SkillsUSA
Advocacy is at the heart of SkillsUSA’s mission — ensuring that every student has access to high-quality career and technical education. As workforce demands evolve, our advocacy efforts must continue to grow. By working together at the local, state and national levels, we can secure greater investment, more opportunities, and a stronger future for CTE students.
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