In this episode of FocusED, Joe and T.J. interview Troy Long, author of The CTE Experience.

Troy makes the case that CTE is not an alternative pathway—it’s one of the most powerful ways to prepare students for both college and careers. Drawing on more than two decades in education, he explains how high-quality CTE programs create opportunity, transform communities, and redefine student success.

Troy says one of the biggest misconceptions about CTE is that it’s only for students who aren’t college bound. He explains that today’s programs include dual enrollment, industry credentials, articulation agreements, and college credit that allow students to graduate with a significant head start on postsecondary education while gaining ...