In light of the re-focusing of the communities to better align with WIOA, I want to share the Technical Assistance for Implementing Career Pathways Systems' definition for career pathways.
A career pathways system refers to a system that supports the design, implementation, and sustainability of career pathways that represent a combination of rigorous and high quality education, training, and other services that also:
(A) align with the skill needs of industries in the economy of the state or region involved; (B) prepare an individual to be successful in any of a full range of secondary or postsecondary education options, including registered apprenticeships; (C) include counseling to support an individual in achieving education and career goals; (D) include, as appropriate, education offered concurrently with and in the same context as workforce preparation activities and training for a specific occupation or occupational cluster; (E) organize education, training, and other services in a manner that accelerates the individual’s educational and career advancement to the extent practicable; (F) enable an individual to attain a secondary school diploma (or its recognized equivalent) and at least one recognized postsecondary credential; and (G) help an individual enter or advance within a specific occupation or occupational cluster. (Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act (WIOA), Department of Labor (DOL) Education and Training Administration (ETA), 2016). |
Considering this definition, and other definitions that you value, what is your state’s, or program's, vision for career pathways systems? |
Mike Cruse
Career Pathways Moderator
michaelcruse74@gmail.com