2026 CTE Expo
Participating in the CTE Expo means more than showing up. It means shaping futures.
When your business takes part, you're helping students connect what they're learning today with the opportunities of tomorrow. You're also strengthening partnerships with our local schools and investing in the future talent pipeline that drives our regional economy.
About CTE in Bedford County Public Schools
Career and technical education (CTE) provides students with the academic, technical, and real-world knowledge, skills, and experience they need to be prepared for a variety of career options. CTE programs are personalized, hands-on, and let students explore different career fields, such as manufacturing, human services, information technology, and more. In addition to the 15 pathways offered at Susie G. Gibson Science & Technology Center, Bedford County Public Schools boasts over 60 CTE courses, with each high school offering a variety of "career clusters." Learn more about CTE in Bedford County Public Schools.
About the CTE Expo
Founded in 2017, the CTE Expo is a collaboration between the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) and Bedford County Public Schools (BCPS). The 2026 event is proudly presented by the Bedford County Office of Economic Development.
On Wednesday, March 11, 2026, all 8th-grade students in Bedford County will visit Susie G. Gibson Science & Technology Center (SGSTC) for this immersive, hands-on career exploration experience.
The CTE Expo aims to:
- Introduce students to the CTE courses, programs, and pathways available in high school and at SGSTC.
- Help 8th graders make thoughtful decisions as they select their 9th-grade course schedules.
- Expose students to a broad range of local, skills-based careers.
- Strengthen connections among businesses, educators, and the future workforce.
After the Expo, participating businesses are invited to tour classrooms, meet instructors, and speak with current CTE students.
How does the CTE Expo work?
Stations are organized by career cluster, meaning businesses will be grouped with teachers and peers in related industries (ex. HVAC professionals with HVAC teacher/students in electrical workshop and classroom, etc). Many businesses will collaborate with a CTE teacher or standout student to create a 5–10-minute hands-on activity for small groups (~10 students). Small groups of 8th graders will rotate through stations on a pre-determined schedule.
If your business does not align with a CTE program: Prepare a hands-on activity or display to engage students and demonstrate your field.
What CTE courses are offered in Bedford County Public Schools? My business wants to participate. How do we sign-up?
We're so glad you want to get involved! Please contact Foster Garrett, Dir. of Marketing & Events for the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, regarding your interest in participating, sponsoring, and/or volunteering at the CTE Expo. She can be reached at marketing@baccva.org or (540) 586-9401.
