While 51% of Massachusetts adult education students are employed, most are in low-wage, poor-quality jobs without benefits, schedule stability, or opportunities for advancement. Statewide, unemployment rates are higher for adults with less education; for example, 15% of adults without a high school diploma are unemployed, compared to 9% of those with a diploma and some college.

In order to help learners access greater employment and economic opportunities as well as achieve the vision and outcomes of WIOA, AE programs need to infuse career pathways and next steps preparation into overall program design and communicate a culture of college and career readiness at every level and type of instruction.

The SABES Program Support PD Center offers PD, resources, and guidance to support career pathways program and service delivery on topics such as: promising MassSTEP models (IET and IELCE); strengthening WIOA partnerships; integrating career awareness; identifying on-ramps to high demand industry sectors; and workplace education.

See below and in the Calendar and Resource Library for career pathways PD and resources.