Georgia CTSOs Legislative Expo Highlights the Impact of CTAE at the Capitol
Atlanta, GA Students, educators, and industry leaders gathered at the Georgia State Capitol for the annual Georgia CTSOs Legislative Day, an event showcasing the powerful impact of Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs across the state.
Recognizing CTAE’s Impact
The Georgia General Assembly recognized the importance of CTAE with resolutions in both the House and Senate, reinforcing its role in preparing students for future careers. Governor Brian Kemp further underscored the significance of these programs by proclaiming February 5th as Georgia CTSO Day at the Capitol and declaring February as CTAE Month statewide.
Georgia CTI State Officers Prepare for Advocacy
The 2025 Georgia CTI Winter Workshop provided coordinators with valuable insights, meaningful connections, and practical strategies to take back to their schools. As Georgia CTI continues to grow, events like these ensure that educators are equipped with the resources and knowledge to help students thrive in education, career preparation, and beyond.
In addition to their training, Georgia CTI’s State Officers joined forces with officers from other Georgia CTSOs to assemble and distribute gift bags for legislators, a gesture of appreciation for their support of CTAE programs.
Student Advocacy & Personal Impact
During the event, students from Georgia’s Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) shared personal success stories, illustrating how CTAE has shaped their education and career paths. Through hands-on learning, leadership opportunities, and career preparation, these students demonstrated how CTAE equips them with skills for success beyond high school.
Several Georgia CTI schools attended the event, with students conducting themselves professionally as they engaged with lawmakers, observed government proceedings, and represented the values of CTI with pride.
Key Messages of CTAE
- Real High School Experience with Added Value – CTAE programs integrate academic learning with career-focused education, making school more engaging and relevant.
- Real Opportunities for College and Careers – Students gain early exposure to career pathways, industry certifications, and postsecondary opportunities.
- Real-World, Workforce-Ready Skills – Through CTSOs and CTAE courses, students develop technical expertise, leadership skills, and professional competencies essential for today’s workforce.
Legislative & Industry Support
Lawmakers, state officials, and business leaders engaged with students throughout the event, reinforcing the critical role CTAE plays in shaping Georgia’s future workforce. Discussions highlighted how these programs align with industry needs, ensuring students graduate prepared for high-demand careers.
Call to Action
Georgia CTSOs and CTAE programs urge continued investment and support from legislators, educators, and business leaders to expand opportunities for students. Stakeholders are encouraged to celebrate CTAE Month by sharing success stories and advocating for the future of career and technical education in Georgia.
For more information about Georgia CTSOs and CTAE programs, visit https://gactso.org/
For further information, please contact:
Mary Davis Donahue
Georgia CTI Executive Director
(P) 678.617.0439 | (F) 706.314.9624
3 Central Plaza, #245, Rome, GA 30161
About Georgia CTI
Our Mission: To provide meaningful transition activities through leadership and employability experiences for students with disabilities in grades 9-12 identified through career, technical, and agricultural education courses in order to increase postsecondary outcomes.