The Minnesota Association for Career and Technical Education (MnACTE) is a representative, statewide, professional, umbrella organization of and for individuals who teach, administer, coordinate, and offer support services to students in secondary and post-secondary career and technical education.



The Minnesota Association for Career and Technical Education (MnACTE) began in 1965 as the Minnesota Vocational Association, created to unite and support professionals dedicated to preparing learners for success in work and life. From its earliest days, MnACTE has represented the shared vision of educators and state leaders who understood that strong career and technical education is essential to Minnesota’s economic and social vitality. What began as a small network of vocational educators has grown into a statewide community that connects secondary and postsecondary professionals, industry partners, and policymakers committed to advancing CTE opportunities for all learners.

Advocacy has always been central to MnACTE’s work. The association collaborates with state government, including the Minnesota Department of Education—one of its chartering members/partners—along with CTE teacher affiliate organizations, higher education institutions, service cooperatives, and workforce agencies to strengthen the voice of CTE in policy and practice. MnACTE actively engages in statewide planning and implementation of the federal Perkins V legislation, working to ensure equitable access, quality instruction, and alignment with workforce needs. Through this collective effort, the association advances professional growth, supports innovative programming, and champions the role of educators in shaping Minnesota’s future workforce.

Today, MnACTE serves as the state affiliate of the national Association for Career and Technical Education. The organization provides leadership, professional development, and a unified voice for CTE educators across Minnesota. Through continued advocacy, collaboration, and innovation, MnACTE remains dedicated to equipping educators with the tools, community, and influence needed to prepare students for success in careers, college, and lifelong learning.

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Divisions

MnACTE

Affiliate Organizations

MACTA

Administrators

MAAE

Agriculture, Food, & Natural Resources

MBITE

Business & Marketing

MnACTE – GCD

Counseling and Career Development

MAFCS

Family & Consumer Science

MHSEA

Health/Human Services & Education

MnACTE – PACE

Postsecondary, Adult, and Career Education

CTE for All – MN

Special Education

MTEEA

Technology & Engineering (STEM)

MnACTE – T&I

Trade & Industry

MnACTE – WBL

Work-Based Learning

MN Dept of Education

Secondary Government

Minnesota State

Post-Secondary Government