U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville has designated February as Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month.

In a video message thanking Alabama's teachers and encouraging students, Tuberville outlined the importance of CTE to the well-being of not only Alabama students, but the entire state, especially the workforce.

“This is a very important month for students and teachers across our great state of Alabama,” Tuberville said. “CTE programs are critical in preparing students for successful careers.”

Ever the Coach's Tuberville said those interested in a career in CTE should start training before taking the job, just as athletes do before competition.

“Just as athletes start practicing long before they step on the field, career development should start before students get their first job. More than 167,000 high school students in Alabama participate in CTE. ”

RELATED: Alabama approves training course for high school students

He also said he understood the benefits of CTE through his own personal experience.

“As a former FFA officer, I can personally attest to the positive impact of CTE. Classes and organizations such as FFA, FCCLA, FBLA, and JROTC provide invaluable experiences for students,” Tuberville said. said.

“It helps students develop leadership, critical thinking, and communication skills.”

At the state level, Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth announced plans to create the 21st Century Workforce Commission and seek further investment in CTE in the state to ensure CTE's place in Alabama's education future. did.

Related: Workforce competitiveness strategy proposed in Alabama's 'transformative' new plan

“Alabama should emphasize the long-term value that career and technical education (CTE) brings to students by developing a diploma pathway that supports students in accessing skills training while in high school.” says the plan. “The CTE Diploma will reset applied skills requirements into practical career training that incorporates academic learning for students who do not plan to attend a four-year college.”

“It will also provide flexibility in the schedules of students attending the training center so that CTE skill development does not come at the expense of student life or developmental activities such as organized sports, the arts, or civic engagement.

“Additionally, Alabama must reinvest in CTE centers to ensure students in every county have access to high-quality facilities with the curriculum and equipment to prepare them for today’s in-demand careers. ”

Recent data shows that CTE students earn higher average incomes than students who do not participate in CTE programs or classes. The study also found that 77% of employers hired an employee because of her CTE experience.

Austin Shipley is a staff writer at Yellowhammer News.