In order for career pathways to remain relevant to learners and meet the rapidly evolving needs of industry and workforce demands, they must include cross-sector collaboration, seamless advancement and progression, credential attainment, experiential work-based learning (EWBL), and they need to be responsive and flexible. "Emerging Sectors,…

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…

"Seeing Green: CTE as a Catalyst for the Green Workforce" is a policy playbook that equips education and workforce leaders with actionable strategies to strengthen pathways into emerging green careers by leveraging the effective structures, mindsets, and collaboration provided through Career Technical Education (CTE). This policy…