The purpose of this study was to define and validate a set of criteria that would conceptualize the "big picture" operation of CTE within the state. Named the operational infrastructure of secondary CTE (OISCTE), these statements were defined as the basic, underlying framework of criteria that local, state, and university leaders in CTE must develop, grow, and/or maintain in order to effectively and efficiently operate a statewide CTE program. The researchers examined the extant literature and formulated 13 criteria statements that embodied the OISCTE. Then, using a survey technique and veteran local and state CTE administrators and university teacher educators, the researchers validated the OISCTE. The OISCTE has policy as well as assessment applications of which the researchers explain within the manuscript. (Contains 2 tables.)