What's Happening?
A recent survey conducted by the research firm Britebound indicates a shift in parental attitudes towards career and technical education (CTE) as a viable alternative to traditional four-year college degrees. The survey, part of Britebound's Youth Career
Readiness Outlook series, involved 2,230 parents of middle and high school students. It found that while traditional college remains the preferred postsecondary path, its popularity has decreased from 74% in 2019 to 58% in 2025. Concurrently, support for nondegree pathways such as CTE, apprenticeships, and trade schools has increased by 6%. This change is attributed to the evolving labor market, where unemployment rates for young college graduates are rising, partly due to the impact of artificial intelligence on entry-level jobs and post-pandemic hiring shifts. The survey also highlights that CTE is increasingly seen as suitable for high-achieving students, with 35% of parents endorsing this view, up from 13% in 2019.
Why It's Important?
The growing acceptance of CTE reflects broader changes in the U.S. labor market and educational landscape. As traditional college degrees face scrutiny over their return on investment, nondegree pathways are being recognized for their potential to provide stable, well-paying careers, especially in industries experiencing labor shortages. This shift could lead to a more diversified workforce and address skill gaps in critical sectors. Parents' increasing openness to CTE suggests a potential realignment of educational priorities, which could influence policy decisions and funding allocations for vocational training programs. The survey underscores the importance of aligning educational pathways with labor market demands, which could enhance economic resilience and reduce unemployment rates among young adults.
What's Next?
As parental support for CTE grows, educational institutions and policymakers may need to expand and promote these programs to meet rising demand. This could involve increasing investment in vocational training facilities, developing partnerships with industries to ensure curriculum relevance, and enhancing public awareness of the benefits of nondegree pathways. Additionally, addressing the perception gap between parents and teens regarding postsecondary plans could improve decision-making processes and outcomes for students. Future research and data collection on student outcomes from both traditional and nondegree pathways will be crucial in guiding these efforts and ensuring that educational offerings align with evolving economic needs.
