About NTHS

National Technical Honor Society (NTHS) is the honor society for Career & Technical Education (CTE). As a national non-profit student organization, NTHS has been recognizing outstanding student achievement in CTE since 1984.  Having served over one million members in secondary and postsecondary chapters across the country and beyond, NTHS continues to support the next generation of skilled workers and leaders through chapter activities built around our Core Four Objectives of career development, leadership development, service, and recognition.  

Over
60,000
new members
each year

Nearly
$300,000
in scholarships
awarded annually

Served over
1 Million
members since
established in 1984

NTHS Mission Statement

The mission of the National Technical Honor Society is to advocate for and empower all students to pursue the skills needed to build their careers and the global workforce.

NTHS Vision Statement

The Vision of the National Technical Honor Society is to be the international leader in providing recognition for excellence in career and technical education.

The NTHS Core 4 Objectives

The NTHS Core 4 Objectives serve as guiding principles that direct the activities and growth of local chapters. Derived from the original seven attributes of NTHS—Skill, Scholarship, Leadership, Honesty, Responsibility, Service, and Citizenship—these objectives are designed to empower members and foster their development in areas essential for success in their future careers. They include Career Development, Leadership, Service, and Recognition opportunities. These objectives provide a foundation for building a vibrant and impactful NTHS community, fostering growth, leadership, service, and recognition among its members. Chapters are encouraged to participate in the Chapter Awards Program each year to demonstrate their work in the NTHS Core 4 Objectives.

What is Career & Technical Education?

Career and Technical Education (CTE) is an educational pathway that equips students with the practical skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in various industries and professions. Unlike traditional academic subjects, CTE emphasizes hands-on learning experiences, real-world applications, and career-specific training. Through a combination of classroom instruction, internships, apprenticeships, and industry partnerships, CTE programs empower students to explore diverse career options, develop essential workplace skills, and pursue pathways leading to meaningful employment or advanced education. At NTHS, we are committed to fostering dedication and excellence in CTE, preparing our students to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving workforce.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) in the United States has roots tracing back to the early 20th century with the establishment of vocational education programs aimed at preparing students for specific trades and industries. These programs gained significant momentum following the passage of the Smith-Hughes Act in 1917, which provided federal funding for vocational education in agricultural, industrial, and home economics fields. Over the decades, CTE evolved to meet the changing needs of the workforce, with landmark legislation such as the Vocational Education Act of 1963 and the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Technical Education Act of 1984 further shaping and expanding CTE initiatives. Today, CTE continues to play a crucial role in American education, adapting to emerging technologies and industries while remaining dedicated to equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the modern economy.

Learn more about Career and Technical Education and the 16 Career Clusters that NTHS serves here (Association for Career & Technical Education website). 

NTHS History

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