News

PACTA successfully hosted the 2025 State Advocacy Day and Career and
Technical Education (CTE) Day on April 2, 2025, at the Pennsylvania State
Capitol in Harrisburg. The event brought together career and technical
educators, students, and policymakers to highlight the importance of CTE
programs and advocate for continued support.

Advocacy Day Reception & Breakfast Meeting
The event kicked off on the evening of April 1 with a well-attended PACTA
State Advocacy Reception at the Hilton Harrisburg, where participants had
the opportunity to network. The following morning, PACTA’s State Advocacy Breakfast Meeting was held at the Hilton Harrisburg, where legislative packets were distributed to attendees. This session provided an essential forum for discussing key advocacy points before participants proceeded to the Capitol for legislative visits.

Career and Technical Education Day at the Capitol
The highlight of the event took place on April 2, when CTE Day was officially opened by Senator Lynda Schlegel Culver, Chair of the Senate Education Committee, in the East Wing of the Pennsylvania Capitol Building. Throughout the day, students from career and technical centers (CTCs) across the state showcased their programs, demonstrating the impact of hands-on learning and workforce readiness. Legislators had the chance to meet with students and educators, view exhibits in the Capitol Rotunda, and discuss policy initiatives aimed at
strengthening CTE programs. Participants emphasized the need for continued funding, updated resources, and expanded career pathways to better prepare students for Pennsylvania’s evolving workforce.

Student Involvement & Support
A key aspect of CTE Day was the involvement of students, who engaged legislators by sharing their experiences and showcasing their technical skills.

Looking Ahead
The 2025 PACTA State Advocacy Day and CTE Day were a resounding success, reinforcing the critical role of career and technical education in Pennsylvania. PACTA extends its gratitude to all attendees, exhibitors, and legislators who participated. We look forward to continuing these important advocacy efforts in the future!