Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are the foundation of leadership, innovation and real-world readiness to help students thrive beyond high school. Now that it’s CTE Month, it’s the perfect time to spotlight real stories from students whose lives have been shaped by CTE and Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) like DECA. Together, these programs inspire personal growth and empower students to become the best versions of themselves.
Let’s hear from DECA members whose journeys through CTE have shaped their futures and shown why these programs are critical for the next generation of leaders.
What has CTE taught you?
Mason Chidlow, KS DECA: Resilience. Serving as a two-time Kansas DECA state officer has taught me the true meaning of resilience. Sometimes, things didn’t go as planned, but I learned to adapt, stay calm, and keep moving forward. Each challenge pushed me to grow, teaching me to trust myself and stay focused no matter the circumstances. These experiences have shaped me into a more confident and determined leader, ready to face challenges and inspire others to do the same.
Cullen Watanuki, IL DECA: Leadership. While I may have entered high school with a bit of “DECA nepotism,” I knew I wanted to be part of the incredible organization so many of us call home. At first, I didn’t know how to compete, but through trial and error, my partner and I developed a system that propelled us to success. Since then, helping others has been at the forefront of my DECA leadership journey, including expanding opportunities as Illinois DECA Vice President of Leadership Development. DECA may be a home for many, but it only becomes one through dedicated leaders like you.
Kayla Morris, OH DECA: Confidence. Career and Technical Education has been fundamental for me in finding my sense of purpose both professionally and academically and inspiring lasting relationships with fellow motivated individuals worldwide. My connections with members and business professionals nationwide planted many seeds of friendship in my first term. Through my second term, I have been able to foster these connections even more, growing deep roots within my incredible CTE family and watching my association (and myself) blossom with confidence and passion for DECA.
Caedmon Case, KY DECA: Community. My DECA journey began my first year when a teacher encouraged me to join his brand-new DECA chapter. Over the years, DECA has not only fueled my passion for leadership and competition but also connected me with an incredible community of peers from my school, state, and internationally. Serving as my chapter’s President and Kentucky’s Vice President of Membership has been a life-changing experience, allowing me to build lasting friendships and grow into the leader I am today.
Maryam Shahkhan, MN DECA: Empowerment. As Minnesota DECA President, I have been given the space to inspire others who look like me, a space to grow, learn, and empower others. I’ve seen firsthand how we as members create opportunities for others in our communities, and that’s when I truly understood the “why” behind everything we do. This role has come with some challenges that have pushed me to grow, but they’ve also allowed me to support others to reach their full potential.
Olivia Thorenson, ND DECA: Advocacy. CTE, and by extension, CTSOs, have allowed me to explore career opportunities I never would have been able to in traditional elective classes. As a result of these class offerings, I’m entering college with a solid idea of what I want to do for the rest of my life, which is invaluable.
CTE transforms lives, and these stories are just a glimpse into the incredible impact these programs have on students across the globe. Advocacy begins with us, sharing our stories and ensuring that CTE continues to thrive for future generations.
What’s your CTE story? Tag @DECAInc and your High School Division Executive Officer Team using #CTEMonth to share your journey!
