Align Priorities and Champion Career Readiness
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2018), jobs requiring a college degree are projected to grow by 11.5 million by 2026. Early career exploration is crucial for developing essential career readiness skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management, which are vital for success in any career. High school students who focused on career and technical education (CTE) courses had higher median annual earnings compared to their peers, as indicated by a Department of Education study. Additionally, a study by ACT® revealed that students who aligned their career interests and aspirations achieved higher salaries over time. By exploring diverse careers and gaining exposure to various industries, students can cultivate these skills and effectively prepare for the workforce.​
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Q: How can career exploration in middle and high school shape students’ future pathways?​
A: Connecting students with their future careers not only provides vital guidance but also fuels engagement and motivation. Through career exploration in the middle and high school years, students gain a sense of purpose, inspiring them to actively participate in their education, leverage available resources, and develop the necessary skills to excel in their chosen paths.​