The advanced manufacturing sector is a key driver of North Carolina's economy, requiring a skilled and adaptable workforce to meet the demands of rapidly growing and evolving industries such as aerospace, biotechnology, and renewable energy. Across the state, and particularly in rural areas, developing a sustainable pipeline of talent for the…

Dual enrollment programs are important mechanisms for talent development and meeting workforce needs through partnerships and alignment between education and the workforce. By allowing high school students to earn college credit--particularly in career-aligned fields--these programs support smoother transitions into postsecondary education and…

Career-connected learning is an educational strategy that combines high-quality academic instruction, skill-based learning, and real-world experiences to prepare students with the knowledge and skills that they need to pursue their college and career goals. Career-connected learning can be delivered in a variety of ways, including in core content…