Job Description
Career and technical educators, also known as postsecondary vocational teachers, provide instruction for occupations that require specialized training but not usually a 4-year degree. They may teach classes in welding, dental hygienics, x-ray technician techniques, auto mechanics, or cosmetology, for example. Classes often are taught in an industrial or laboratory setting where students are provided hands-on experience. Career and technical educators often help to establish internship programs for students and facilitate contact between students at community colleges and technical schools and prospective employers.

Annual Median Salary
$53,750

Educational Requirements
Training requirements for career and technical educators vary by state and subject. In general, career and technical education teachers need a bachelor’s or graduate degree, plus at least 3 years of work experience in their field. In some fields, a license or certificate may be the only requirement. These teachers may need to update their skills through continuing education to maintain certification, and they must also maintain ongoing dialogue with businesses to determine the skills most needed in the current workplace.

Job Outlook
Employment of postsecondary teachers, including career and technical educators is expected to increase by 23 percent before 2016, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.