What does a high school vocational education teacher do?

I'm considering a career in education and vocational teaching sounds intriguing. Can anyone explain what a vocational education teacher does in a high school setting? Also, what qualifications are generally required?

A high school vocational education teacher, also known as a Career and Technical Education (CTE) teacher, is in charge of teaching students the technical, trade-specific skills and knowledge needed in various career paths. The fields they teach can vary widely, including the likes of culinary arts, automotive repair, construction, computer science, healthcare, and more.

In the classroom, they develop lesson plans, deliver lectures, and provide hands-on instruction where students can practice their skills. They also might arrange for guest speakers from different industries or organize field trips to local businesses. Patiently mentoring students and assessing their progress to ensure they're gaining the necessary skills, knowledge, and competencies to succeed in the chosen trade is also a part of their role.

Their responsibilities are not just limited to teaching hard skills. They also often promote soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. In some cases, they might partner with local businesses or vocational colleges to facilitate internships or apprenticeship programs.

In terms of qualifications, a bachelor's degree is usually required. Should the person teach a skill-based class, relevant work experience is sometimes needed, depending on the school district or state's requirements. Traditionally, CTE teachers would finish an education program, but alternative certification programs might also be acceptable in some states. Since vocational teaching often involves specialized fields, obtaining an industry-based certification or license might also be necessary.

Each state has its guidelines for becoming a vocational teacher and a teaching license might be required, which often involves passing a series of exams and completing supervised teaching experience.

In summary, a vocational education teacher helps prepare students for the workforce by teaching them specific career skills, along with soft skills pertinent to their chosen field. A successful teacher in this role will have a blend of in-depth knowledge in their specific field and a passion for helping students learn and grow.