The Los Angeles Regional Consortium (LARC) Celebrates CTE Month and Elevates Regional Programs Across LA’s 19 Community Colleges
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 18, 2026 – In recognition of National Career Technical Education (CTE) Month, the Los Angeles Regional Consortium (LARC) is spotlighting the life-changing impact of Career Technical Education across Los Angeles County—and the powerful, employer-aligned programs offered through the region’s 19 community colleges.
Career Technical Education, or CTE, combines academic learning with technical training. These programs help students prepare for college, career training, and the workforce. CTE focuses on real-world learning across high-employment industry sectors.
“CTE is where talent meets opportunity and LARC is the bridge,” said Dr. Narineh Makijan, Chair and Assistant Vice President of the Los Angeles Regional Consortium. “Across our 19 community colleges with our K12 and industry partners, we’re aligning training with real employer needs so students gain the skills, experience, and confidence to move from the classroom into lasting careers.”
LARC strengthens CTE regionwide by coordinating college collaboration, supporting industry-aligned curriculum, and expanding access to work-based learning and employer partnerships. A few of LARC’s key resources is the #19Strong Career and Technical Education Program Dashboard, LARC Career Technical Education Hub and K12 Map, which offers tools and support for educators, students, and partners across the region.
“Work-based learning turns potential into readiness,” said Dr. Dorado, CEO Co-Chair (LARC). “When students can apply what they’re learning in real workplace settings, they build momentum, professional confidence, and a clear line of sight to employment.”
Resources available through the LARC website include:
- College and career exploration resources
- Career Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) support
- Work-based learning guidance and tools
- Advisory committee resources and templates
- CTE best practices and professional learning connections
- Labor market data to support program alignment
- Connections to professional organizations and sector supports
“CTE strengthens communities by strengthening pathways,” said Dr. Fierro, CEO Co-Chair (LARC). “Through regional collaboration and trusted employer partnerships, LARC helps ensure students across LA can access high-quality training that leads to meaningful careers—right here in our local workforce.”
Across the region, CTE programs are producing strong results through hands-on learning and community partnerships:
At Long Beach City College, students from Long Beach Unified School District participated 
in the Meet the Arts tour. About 120 students from five high schools explored Visual and Media Arts programs through hands-on workshops. Sessions included animation, photography, film, game design, ceramics, and emerging media. Students also toured the campus and learned about college and career pathways. Many shared that the experience helped them discover new skills and increased their interest in attending LBCC.
In the Food and Hospitality sector, students from California High School’s TCROP Culinary Arts program are gaining real-world experience through a work-based learning partnership with the DoubleTree Hotel in Whittier. Students rotate through food preparation, baking, and front desk operations. Students can also earn college credit through articulation with Rio Hondo College. For some participants, the experience has led to full-time employment.
In the Education and Human Development sector, students at Santa Fe High School enrolled in the Careers in Education pathway are gaining classroom experience through weekly work-based learning placements facilitated by Tri-Cities ROP. Students work directly in Transitional Kindergarten and K-5 classrooms at local elementary schools. They support instruction, engage younger learners, and assist with classroom activities.
Approximately 21 Santa Fe High School students participate each week. They mentor younger students, support early literacy, and lead enrichment activities. These placements help students explore careers in education while building confidence and practical teaching skills. Students graduate with real classroom experience and a clearer path toward education careers.
Together, these programs show how Career Technical Education connects learning to meaningful careers while strengthening the regional workforce.
To learn more about Career Technical Education programs and resources offered through the Los Angeles Regional Consortium, visit losangelesrc.org.
About the Los Angeles Regional Consortium (LARC)
The Los Angeles Regional Consortium consists of 19 community colleges in Los Angeles County. It serves to coordinate, collaborate, organize, and facilitate interaction in the region to ensure workforce training is provided to all in a way that is accessible, efficient, responsive, data-driven and improves outcomes. Supported by the State Chancellor’s Office and hosted at Pasadena City College, LARC’s primary objective is to bridge the gap between workforce preparedness and employers’ needs in the LA region. For more information, visit https://losangelesrc.org.
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