Cullman Area Technology Academy Praised by National Education Advocates

The Cullman Area Technology Academy (CATA) received significant recognition from both national and state career technical education advocates during a visit on September 22, 2025. This event marked a pivotal moment for CATA, as it was selected as one of the key educational facilities to showcase its programs following Alabama’s recent membership in the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), the largest non-profit organization committed to advancing career and technical education in the United States.

During the tour, CATA Director Susan Patrick expressed her enthusiasm for hosting members from ACTE and the Alabama Association for Career and Technical Education (ALACTE). The visitors gained insights into five of CATA’s fifteen programs, including Health Sciences, Cybersecurity, Precision Machining, Utility Line Worker, and Cosmetology. Students showcased the practical skills they have developed, with future linemen performing a pole-climbing demonstration and machining program participants sharing their collaboration with NASA.

Among the highlights was a visit to the Health Sciences program, CATA’s largest initiative, which currently serves approximately 130 students. Senior student Amber McCloud articulated the program’s impact on her future aspirations. “Healthcare has always interested me, but I just really love the environment here,” McCloud stated. She plans to further her education to become a veterinary technician, emphasizing that the program is preparing her for real-world challenges.

The cybersecurity program, noted for its rapid growth, nearly doubled its enrollment this year, according to instructor Chase Nelson. He praised CATA’s adaptability, stating, “One of the things I love about, not just my shop, but CATA in general, is that we find what works for our students. It’s one of the best things about CATA. Every student has a place here.”

The visit also attracted the attention of Jimmy Koch, ACTE’s manager of government relations, who highlighted the importance of teacher retention in career education. He remarked on the inspiring nature of CATA’s instructors, saying, “The teachers are just so inspiring. They are really just so passionate about what they are doing.”

As the Cullman County Board of Education progresses with plans for a new, state-of-the-art STEM Academy, Patrick noted that the visit affirmed the district’s commitment to enhancing career and technical education. “CATA has always had a great reputation in the state for the programs we offer and the instructors we have, and we have great students,” Patrick said. “I think with ACTE acknowledging that, it just validates the work we are doing and that we are continuing that path of excellence in preparing our kids for the future.”

The accolades from national and state education advocates reflect a broader commitment to equipping students with the skills necessary for success in an evolving job market. The support and recognition CATA has garnered signal a promising future for its educational programs and the students it serves.