The next generation of Massachusetts CTE Instructional Frameworks are envisioned to be a dynamic source of resources and tools to support continuous improvement of CTE programs and career-connected learning. With our partner, Pathway to Careers (formerly NS4ED), the frameworks will be updated to reflect this vision throughout 2024.
CTE Instructional Frameworks provide the competencies students need to access high-wage high-demand careers. Educators use the framework to build curriculum for their program to ensure students develop the skills they need for their future. State-Approved CTE (Chapter 74) programs provide students with learning experience to demonstrate proficiency in all standards, experience work-based learning, and opportunities to earn essential and supplemental industry recognized credentials. The frameworks also serve as a resource to any educator looking to integrate career-connected learning into a course, learning experience, or program.
Framework development begins with a "backward design" process of reviewing a labor market analysis, job postings, and employer input to gather actionable intelligence. Input from educators and employers are sought throughout the process, culminating in employer focus group summits and educator summits. After publishing updated frameworks, continuous feedback is gathered through the Career-Connected Learning Hub and role-alike educator meetings.
By working hand-in-hand with industry, our state’s educators are at the forefront helping students to prepare for their futures.
The Career-Connected Learning Hub will be the central location for all Career-Connected Learning instructional resources. Included below are the current Standards and Skills for each program area.
There are 45 program areas in 11 Industry clusters. Each program area has a framework, additionally, there are four common frameworks that apply to all programs: Safety & Health, Essential/Employability Skills, Management & Entrepreneurship, & Digital Literacy. The links below provide the most recent version of the frameworks available.
Safety and Health (Strand 1, 2014)
Employability / Essential Skills (Strand 4, 2014)
Management & Entrepreneurship (Strand 5, 2022)
Digital Literacy & Computer Science (Strand 6, 2016)
Agricultural Mechanics (2014)
Animal Science (2014)
Environmental Science & Technology (2014)
Horticulture (2014)
Veterinary Science (2024)
Design and Visual Communications (2014)
Graphic Communications (2014)
Radio and Television Broadcasting (2014)
Business Technology (2014)
Fashion Technology (2014)
Marketing (2014)
Cosmetology (2023)
Building and Property Maintenance (2014)
Cabinetmaking (2014)
Construction Craft Laborer (2014)
Mason and Tile Setting (2014)
Painting and Design Technologies (2014)
Sheet Metalworking (2014)
Carpentry (2023)
Electricity (2023)
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (2023)
Plumbing (2023)
Early Education and Care (2014)
Dental Assisting (2023)
Health Assisting (2023)
Medical Assisting (2023)
Culinary Arts (2014)
Hospitality Management (2014)
Information Support Services & Networking (2023)
Programming & Web Development (2023)
Criminal Justice (2014)
Biotechnology (2014)
Drafting (2014)
Electronics (2014)
Engineering Technology (2014)
Robotics and Automation Technology (2014)
Stationary Engineering (2014)
Telecommunications and Fiber Optics (2014)
Advanced Manufacturing (2023)
Metal Fabrication & Joining Technologies (2023)
Diesel Technology (2014)
Marine Service Technology (2014)
Power Equipment Technology (2014)
Automotive Collision (2023)
Automotive Technology (2023)
Last Updated: April 24, 2024
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