The Education for Careers/Professions (ECP) team at Centennial High School (Champaign, Illinois) is embarking on a plan for the future education of the workforce. Its vision statement and plan are designed to prepare all 1,500 students for life beyond high school into the world of work in the 21st century. The ECP plan addresses the need for students to attain high levels of technological skills and related academic competencies. It provides connections between the classroom and the real world and prepares students for at least 2 years of college training or apprenticeship beyond high school. The ECP plan consists of three components: school-based learning, work-based learning, and connecting activities. The plan is implemented through the following methods: freshman participation in career-oriented field trips, extensive career counseling, and development of an individual career pathway; sophomore job shadowing; junior mentoring opportunities; and senior mentoring and/or internships/apprenticeships. Students choose among six career pathways: health, human service, business/communications, fine arts, agriculture/natural resources, and engineering/manufacturing. Career pathways emphasize focus on a career goal yet allow flexibility so students can change pathways. After successful completion of an ECP pathway, students receive a certificate of achievement. An additional component of the ECP plan is a coordinator housed with the Champaign-Urbana Chamber of Commerce who sets up all student work experiences. (YLB)