Perceptions of career and technical education impact participation in innovative programs that lead to high wages. Why does there continue to be a stigma around these opportunities when industries have job openings that could benefit individuals who prefer hands-on classroom and work environments? In this TEDx talk, we explore the stigma associated with career and technical programs and offer solutions that can close the gap between perceptions and reality so more individuals can enjoy pathways to fulfilling careers. With 25 years of research experience, Dr. Nicole Alioto spent the majority of her career working in higher education and K12 to use data for improving student outcomes and institutional effectiveness. In 2017 she started Alla Breve Educational Consulting to help public sector organizations and educational institutions cut time with strategic planning and analysis and get laser focused on answers empowering them to be effective. Working with education and public sector agencies, she focused on improving efficiency and effectiveness regarding data driven decisions. Before IBM, she was the Coordinator for the WSWHE BOCES Data Analysis Service, assisting districts in the analysis, interpretation, and use of data. Nicole completed her Ph.D. in Social Psychology at the University of Connecticut, focusing on attitude and behavior change. Specifically, she applied social psychology theories to advertising and evaluated their effectiveness using structural equation modeling. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx