January 23, 2026
Automotive Technology students demonstrate how they use their Chromebooks to run diagnostic tests and support hands-on trade learning during a visit with Executive Director Dr. Pritchard.
CTECS depends on capital investment to operate our large portfolio of 20 campuses, comprised of over 3.7 million square feet, specialized trade labs, transportation assets, and systemwide technology. CTECS functions as both an education system and a facilities agency serving over 13,000 students, 1,600 staff, and residents and employers of 166 Connecticut towns. This scale requires long-term planning and prudent use of bond funds.
Bond authorizations approved by the General Assembly allow CTECS to invest in assets with long useful lives, including instructional equipment, building systems, state-of-the-art information technology, and transportation. These funds are separate from operating dollars and are used only for capital needs that support safe, reliable, and modern learning environments.
In recent years, CTECS has strengthened its capital planning. Equipment replacement schedules and a multi-year capital plan now guide decisions and prioritize health, safety, and continuity of instruction.
Recent use of bond funding has supported network upgrades at every school, providing high-capacity fiber connectivity; modern phone and digital communication systems with important safety benefits; and student technology, including a program where each student has their own device, which is critical for instruction. Capital funds are also used for upgrades to our building facilities, including energy efficiency improvements, roofs, HVAC upgrades and replacements, emergency repairs, and security upgrades. CTECS is also required to replace our fleet of student transport vehicles on a 12-year cycle.
As programs continue to evolve, capital investment allows CTECS to keep pace with changing technology and industry standards. This includes the purchase of shop equipment to ensure students are trained on current industry tools and practices. For example, bond funds were used to acquire A2L refrigerant and compatible tools and equipment, a new EPA-mandated standard essential for students working with modern HVAC systems. Other investments include CNC machines, tool packages for teaching metal stud framing, and dustless saws for block work, which are both industry-standard and safer for students. Capital funding also supports automated building systems and emerging instructional and extracurricular areas, such as e-sports. When new policies or expectations are established, appropriate capital resources are essential to ensure successful implementation.
Through responsible stewardship, long-range planning, and industry donations that supplement program equipment, CTECS uses bond funds to meet today’s needs while preparing Connecticut’s future workforce.