Implementation Experiences: Aligning CompTIA Training with U.S. State CTE Frameworks (e.g., DESE Massachusetts)

[jvolquezm]

Hello everyone,

I’m an Information Technology instructor at a Chapter 74 Career and Technical Education (CTE) high school in Massachusetts, working under the DESE Information Support Services and Networking (ISSN) framework.

I’d like to learn from others about their experience implementing CompTIA training programs (such as A+, Network+, Security+, etc.) in alignment with state-level CTE frameworks across the U.S.

Specifically:

• How have schools structured CompTIA coursework within multi-year high school CTE pathways?
• Which CompTIA certifications have you integrated at each grade level (e.g., sophomore, junior, senior years)?
• How do you ensure compliance with your state’s CTE standards (for example, DESE’s six strands: Safety & Health, Technical Skills, Employability, etc.) while maintaining industry relevance?
• What methodologies or pacing models have proven most effective (semester-based, full-year, hybrid, or modular)?

I’m currently mapping CompTIA A+ Core 1 & 2 (CertMaster Learn v15) against the DESE CTE framework and would appreciate insights, success stories, or lesson structures that have worked well in your districts.

Thank you in advance for sharing your experience and best practices.

— José Volquez
Greater Lawrence Technical School, Andover MA