How Can I Build My State's Work and Career Readiness Program?

10 Steps for Building Your State's Work and Career Readiness Program

Take ownership and make the program a priority
Determine economic strategies
Get endorsement for the program at the highest state levels, including the Governor’s office
Establish a working group of representatives (Board of Regents, Department of Education, Department of Labor, Department of Social Services, Department of Civil Service, Community and Technical Colleges, Workforce Commissions, Department of Corrections, etc.)
Determine skill levels required for individuals to achieve certificates verifying their workforce competencies
Enlist support from agencies that will assess individuals, provide training, and promote use of certificates by businesses
Develop a system to maintain records for individuals who have obtained or are seeking certificates
Train partner agencies about the meaning of the certificates so they can communicate this information to individuals and businesses
Publicize the program to engage the support of businesses and the public
Make sure partner agencies are using the certificates and that businesses are requesting certificates when hiring