Press Release

[Brevard County, FL] — Brevard Public Schools unveils its 5-year expansion plan for its Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs during the June 18th School Board Work Session. This plan aims to introduce 17 new CTE programs across the county geared to enhancing educational opportunities and workforce readiness for students. Brevard Public Schools plans to add new programs to include agriculture operations, artificial intelligence, firefighting, diesel maintenance, natural resources, advanced manufacturing, electricity, advanced aerospace technologies  in partnership with both Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and Florida Institute of Technology, emergency medical responder, JROTC in partnership with Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, aviation assembly & fabrication, space mechatronics, patient care assisting, and technical design. Discussions are also underway to bring CTE programs to Westshore Jr./Sr. High School, making CTE offerings available to students across all high schools within Brevard Public Schools.

Rachel Rutledge, Director of Career and Technical Education, highlighted the projected impact of this expansion: "Through this initiative, our CTE programs are equipping Brevard Public Schools graduates with the critical skills needed for the jobs of tomorrow. Families will now have an array of options to prepare their students for both college and career opportunities within our public school system. We are excited about the growth and evolution of our programs, particularly in relation to the advancements specific to the Space Coast."

Currently, Brevard Public Schools serves over 111 CTE programs across 15 of its 16 public schools, including Brevard Virtual School. Career and Technical Education programs proudly provide opportunities and valuable incentives for the students to include internships, on-the-job high school credit, industry credentials, and direct hiring opportunities. Partnerships with major community organizations offer knowledge and skills to students that can be directly applied to local workforce needs.

The expansion amplifies Brevard Public Schools’ commitment to prepare students for success in career pathways and offer those that align closely with the dynamic industry demands and growth of the Space Coast. As CTE programs continue to evolve, they continuously drive prosperity across Brevard County and give students the tools to succeed in their future.

For more information about Brevard Public Schools’ Career and Technical Education programs, visit [https://www.brevardschools.org/page/career-and-technical-education]

For media inquiries or further information please contact: [Ryan Dufrain] [Assistant Superintendent to Human Resources] [321-633-1000 ext. 11200] [dufrain.ryan@brevardschools.org]

###