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CATE Announces Major Expansion to Meet Workforce Demands

  //automotive-transportation.news-articles.net/co .. s-major-expansion-to-meet-workforce-demands.html
  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Friday, January 30th 2026 at 15:57 GMT by The Virginian-Pilot
      Locales: Virginia, UNITED STATES

Chesapeake, VA - January 30th, 2026 - The Chesapeake Career Technical Education Center (CATE) is embarking on a significant expansion designed to not only meet the current surge in student interest but, more importantly, to proactively address the evolving demands of the regional workforce. Announced today, the comprehensive initiative encompasses the introduction of cutting-edge programs in critical growth sectors, substantial upgrades to existing infrastructure, and a commitment to equipping students with the skills necessary to thrive in the 21st-century economy.

Principal Brian Stutz highlighted the driving force behind the expansion: a demonstrable and accelerating increase in student enrollment in career and technical education (CTE) pathways. "We're not simply reacting to interest," Stutz explained. "We're anticipating future needs. The data clearly shows a growing recognition that a four-year university isn't the only path to a fulfilling and financially secure career. Many students are eager to learn a trade, gain practical skills, and enter the workforce quickly with in-demand qualifications."

The expansion focuses on three key areas: Healthcare Sciences, Information Technology, and Advanced Manufacturing. These sectors have been identified as possessing substantial growth potential within the Hampton Roads region and beyond.

The Healthcare Sciences program will move beyond introductory concepts, offering specialized tracks for Medical Assistants, Pharmacy Technicians, and increasingly vital roles like Medical Coders and Electronic Health Records Specialists. The curriculum will be aligned with industry certifications, ensuring graduates are immediately employable. A significant component will be clinical rotations with local hospitals and healthcare providers, providing students with real-world experience before graduation. Demand for healthcare professionals continues to outstrip supply, making this a particularly crucial addition. The aging population in Virginia further exacerbates this need.

The Information Technology program represents a major investment in the future of the region's tech sector. While basic computer literacy is commonplace, CATE's program will delve into the intricacies of computer programming, specializing in languages like Python and Java, which are highly sought after by employers. Cybersecurity will be a core focus, addressing the growing threat of data breaches and the critical need for skilled professionals to protect sensitive information. Furthermore, the program will emphasize Data Analytics, equipping students with the ability to interpret vast datasets and provide valuable insights to businesses. CATE is partnering with local tech firms to provide mentorship opportunities and potential internships.

The Advanced Manufacturing program is perhaps the most ambitious of the new initiatives. It will move beyond traditional machining and welding to focus on the rapidly evolving world of robotics, automation, and 3D printing. Students will learn to program and maintain robotic systems, operate Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines, and utilize additive manufacturing techniques to design and create prototypes. This program will be heavily focused on Industry 4.0 principles, preparing students for a future where automation and data exchange are integral to manufacturing processes. Experts predict that the demand for skilled technicians in these areas will continue to grow exponentially as companies strive to increase efficiency and competitiveness.

Beyond the new programs, CATE is undergoing a physical transformation. Existing classrooms will be modernized, and new dedicated labs and workshops will be constructed to accommodate the expanded curriculum. A significant investment is being made in state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring that students have access to the same tools and technologies used by industry professionals. This includes advanced medical simulation equipment, high-powered computer workstations, and sophisticated robotic systems.

Funding for the expansion is a collaborative effort, drawing from local school board allocations, state CTE grants, and federal workforce development funds. This multi-faceted funding approach underscores the importance placed on CTE programs by all levels of government.

CATE currently serves students from Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and surrounding counties, providing a vital service to the broader regional community. The center also offers well-established programs in Automotive Technology, Culinary Arts, and Cosmetology, all of which will continue to be supported and enhanced. Principal Stutz emphasizes that CATE isn't just about teaching skills; it's about building futures. "We're committed to empowering our students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to succeed, regardless of their chosen path."