Career and technical education (CTE) programs are growing in demand, but educators warn that facilities, equipment, and sustained funding remain barriers. An EdWeek Research Center survey shows many CTE programs earn B grades from practitioners; top features of A-rated programs include strong business partnerships and updated facilities. Linked research on district budgeting finds administrators believe starting resource priority discussions earlier—often in January–April—improves long-term decisions. Community colleges, workforce offices, and university extension programs should watch these local budget cycles and partnership opportunities to strengthen applied-degree pipelines and apprenticeship collaborations.