Dakota College at Bottineau (DCB) celebrates February as Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month. CTE month celebrates programs across North Dakota that gain the academic, technical, and employability skills necessary for career readiness.  Michelle Cauley, Natural Resource Instructor, declares it her pleasure to teach CTE courses for Dakota College at Bottineau, “CTE means the world to me, as career and tech education in our state of ND and in our country, these are the foundational jobs that really keep our state and our country moving forward. These are those hands-on, in-the-field kinds of jobs that I have the pleasure of getting to work with students in exploring their dreams and their careers in CTE fields.”

Known for CTE programs, Dakota College at Bottineau provides students with the technical skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary for successful performance in a globally competitive workplace. Comprised of eight program areas, CTE is developed to prepare students to meet the expectations of employers. Each program contains career clusters offering several pathways, valuable skills, and real-world experience. The career clusters serve as an organizational model grouping occupations with similar traits. Essential skills and knowledge for each cluster identify and provide the foundation for CTE curriculum development and instruction.  
Dakota College at Bottineau offers programs within these career clusters. 

• Agriculture / Horticulture
• Business
• Computer Technology
• Education & Human Services
• Health Professions to include Nursing, Dental, Paramedic Technology
• Natural Resources
• Photography
• Technical Studies

Bottineau is not the only community DCB serves, providing programming also in Minot and Valley City.

Students who successfully complete a CTE program can enter the workforce in one or two years after earning a certificate or technical degree. The CTE programs of study may provide opportunities to earn industry-recognized credentials. In addition, some CTE-bound students decide to further their education by transferring to a four-year university.

There is a level of academic content and skill that is required for success in today’s career and technical fields. CTE provides comprehensive opportunities for students to develop the skills they need to succeed in the 21st-century economy. Harlie Huschka, Freshman enrolled in the Horticulture program, is more than satisfied with her choice in DCB.

“When it came time to choose a college, I wanted a place where I felt seen, supported, and truly valued. That’s exactly what I found at DCB. I have had opportunities I have never dreamed of. Choosing DCB was not just choosing a college; it was choosing a future I am genuinely excited about”.