MISSOULA, MT – Governor Greg Gianforte on Feb 26th, visited Missoula County Public Schools (MCPS) to spotlight innovative programs that prepare students for success in the workforce.

“Career and Technical Education plays an important role in preparing the next generation of Montana’s workforce,” Gov. Gianforte said. “By equipping students with hands-on skills and real-world experience, CTE and work-based learning programs open doors to high-paying, in-demand careers for our students and strengthen our economy.”

Beginning the day at Russell Elementary School, Gov. Gianforte visited with students benefiting from early literacy programs through MCPS’s partnership with Reading Opens Your World (ROW). ROW is a nonprofit helping young students develop essential literacy skills with the help of volunteers and Sentinel High students participating in guiding reading during the school day.

At Washington Middle School, the governor met with students participating in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs including robotics, STEM, and graphic design.

MCPS also collaborates with the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services to provide students with disabilities opportunities to explore their interests and develop skills through work-based learning experiences. Visiting with one Sentinel High student helping at Russell Elementary, the governor heard of her help in the school lunchroom to assist students, learn new skills, and earn a wage.

Continuing the visit at Sentinel High School, the governor toured CTE classrooms and learned more about the programs offered including automotive, welding, engineering, culinary, and opportunities offered to explore health professions. MCPS offers this range of CTE programs designed to prepare students for high-demand careers while fostering essential skills in leadership, problem-solving, and innovation.

During a press conference with a sophomore CTE student, Quinn C., and automotive teacher, Mrs. Philbert, the governor heard about the benefit of the automotive class and work-based learning.

“In our small engines class, our kids understand why maintenance is so important and to learn what is inside the engine. Then we move onto cars, where they learn the same inspection that technicians are doing on their cars in the shop,” Mrs. Philbert said.

“I started this class because I’d been around lawnmowers and weed wackers, and I didn’t know how to work them. Since I’ve taken this class, I’ve taken apart a chainsaw and learned how to fix it. It’s a great skill to have, I am really glad I was able to take this class,” Quinn said.

Through MCPS’s work-based learning program, Quinn spends two hours each morning at the Missoula Chevy dealership assisting technicians and gaining first-hand experience while earning a wage.

In 2021, the governor authorized every school district in the state to establish individualized, work-based learning paths for students. And, to boost the skills of hardworking Montanans and meet the needs of employers, the governor also proposed and established the Montana Trades Education Credit (MTEC), providing employers with a tax credit for employee education and training. The governor nearly doubled MTEC in 2023.

In line with his priorities, the governor last session expanded work-based learning opportunities for Montana students and signed three bills into law to support schools in offering internships, apprenticeships, and CTE programs.

CTE Month highlights the role of technical education in Montana’s schools, including apprenticeships, dual-credit programs, and industry-recognized certifications that help students transition directly into the workforce or continue their education.

Earlier this month, Gov. Gianforte joined students and representatives from Montana’s Career and Technical Student Organizations in the rotunda of the Montana State Capitol to proclaim February as CTE Month. You can view the proclamation here.