Plumbers. Welders. Electricians. Carpenters. Machine operators. HVAC technicians.

These are among just a few of what used to be called vocational-technical trades learned in high school. Schools are calling them CTE, or Career and Technical Education programs.

Regardless, they are critical to us all.

Our communities and our nation need more plumbers, welders, carpenters, etc.

Ask any employer or small businessperson or homeowners and they’ll tell you that.

These traditional skills-careers form the basis of our economy — our modern lives.

And today, they pay a living wage.

The U.S. Department of Education defines CTE like this: It is a “pathway” that provides students with the academic, technical, and real world knowledge, skills and experience they need to be prepared for a variety of careers. CTE gives students training and skills in many different types of careers in high growth industries such as science and technology, healthcare, and business management. The programs — as area schools will attest — are personalized and hands-on.

Kids need to be shown how learning such great skills can lead to a successful and, frankly, prosperous life.

We encourage parents to talk to their kids about CTE programs.

Let’s talk trade skills. Let’s talk hands-on education. Let’s talk partnering students with manufacturers-businesses-employers to learn skills.