Mechanicsburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) today joined middle school students at Cumberland Perry Area Career and Technical Center (CPACTC) for their middle school summer camp to learn about different hands-on programs that will aid students in selecting a career path and exploring options for their future.
“Career and technical education helps students build a foundation for their futures, all while gaining skills, knowledge, and confidence,” said Acting Secretary of Education Dr. Carrie Rowe. “We are committed to increasing opportunities for students across the Commonwealth, whether through library programs, cooperative education, resources for postsecondary students, or support for career and technical education programs – for both high school students and middle school students.”
CPACTC’s middle school summer camp is open to students entering grades seven through nine at the start of the 2025-26 school year that reside in one of the 13 member school districts, which include Big Spring, Camp Hill, Cumberland Valley, East Pennsboro, Greenwood, Mechanicsburg, Newport, Northern York, South Middleton, Susquenita, Upper Adams, West Perry, and West Shore.
During the two two-day sessions, over 250 students participate in 13 different programs. The two sessions provide an opportunity for young students to learn about the educational options that will be available to them in the future, and gives them the ability to envision themselves experiencing the training program and see themselves doing something they truly enjoy.
“Cumberland Perry Area Career and Technical Center appreciates the opportunity to show Dr. Rowe the positive experiences that are provided by our Career and Technical Education programs,” said Thomas Wolfe, Administrative Director. “Our students, staff, and many representatives from local businesses, occupational organizations, and post-secondary schools are working together to create the next generation of skilled workers for in demand occupations. These collaborative efforts will put our students in a position to lead productive lives and will allow central Pennsylvania to experience continued growth and to thrive as an excellent place to live and work.”
CPACTC offers programs in 23 career and technical fields, including cluster areas of Logistics/Transportation, Manufacturing, Construction, Health Occupations, IT/Technology, and more – all areas critical areas to Pennsylvania’s workforce and successful economy. CPACTC has experienced a 44 percent increase in student enrollment throughout the past nine years. In addition to increasing enrollment, during the 2023-24 school year, students earned over 1,700 industry credentials and more than 700 college credits through their career and technical programs.
Governor Shapiro’s first two budgets increased funding for career and technical education (CTE) and apprenticeships by $65 million – 50 percent more than the day he took office. His 2025-26 budget proposal continues to build on this progress and creates more opportunity for Pennsylvania students with another $5.5 million increase for CTE programs.
Career and technical education gives students the opportunity to learn practical, hands-on skills and knowledge directly applicable to in-demand careers across the Commonwealth, increasing employability and preparing them for the future – all while still in high school. CTE students can explore different career pathways, earn industry credentials, college credits, and gain confidence in themselves and their abilities, helping them make informed decisions about future education, career, and life goals, whether it’s pursuing postsecondary education, joining the military, or entering directly into the workforce.