Have real-life work experience? A CTE teaching career could be your next big step.
Now more than ever, school districts are working hard to find high-quality teachers. If you have work experience in a trade, career, or technical field, you may be able to start your teaching career sooner than you think. You may not need a degree!
One CTE teacher shares how she found her calling and brought her business experience to the CTE classroom.
Have experience in the subject area you want to teach? CTE certification lets you quickly apply your knowledge and expertise in the classroom.
New York offers over 70 different CTE teaching certificate titles, in fields from carpentry to medical assisting to forensic science. See a full list of CTE titles here.
Regardless of which pathway to teaching you take, you must:
The right pathway will depend on your background and the subject you want to teach. Visit the NYSED Certification Requirements page to find the education and experience requirements you’ll need to meet.
Highlight your related experience for the CTE subject area you want to teach. For resume tips and tricks, see TeachNY’s free Resume Guide.
Register for an NY.gov TEACH account with the New York State Education Department here. (This is different from your TeachNY account!) Your NY.gov TEACH account is where you’ll submit your application, information about completed workshops, industry credentials and other documents.
Gather your documents including transcripts, a work verification form, and any credentials you’ve earned.
You’ll need to complete these workshops:
Find more information here.
To get your Transitional-A Certificate, you must have a teaching job lined up. You’ll receive a nomination (job offer) and your district will submit it to the NYSED Office of Teaching Initiatives for approval.
You can apply to New York City Schools here or apply to other districts across the state using the job board here!
Luis spent the first half of his career working in the automotive repair industry. Today, he shares his knowledge with CTE students. Hear his story.
Kraig teaches middle school students the fundamentals of finances and digital literacy—two crucial skills no matter what students choose to do after graduation.
Want to talk more about becoming a CTE teacher? Sign up for a TeachNY coaching session!
With group coaching and 1-on-1 options, you can learn about the profession and ask questions, so you can make the right decision about your future.
