The inaugural Skilled Trades Workshop at the MADE Hub for Manufacturing in Mason, Ohio, is teaching high-school students essential skills in construction, electrical services and plumbing. The program, initiated in January, allows students from Mason and Kings High School to gain hands-on experience under the guidance of industry professionals.

Ridge View Community School in Dexter, Maine, hosted a SLAM Showcase where Student Leader Ambassadors of Maine taught creative technology classes, including Tinkercad and Canva. SLAM Coordinator Kern Kelley highlighted the mutual benefits, with younger students exploring new resources and ambassadors gaining leadership experience.

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker has proposed legislation that would allow community colleges to offer bachelor's degrees in fields such as nursing and advanced manufacturing to address workforce needs and make higher education more accessible. The bill is particularly significant for rural students who face challenges in commuting to universities and could benefit from local, affordable four-year programs.

Universities are partnering with local businesses on curriculum and career pathways to expand their workforce-aligned education and make classes more responsive. Kristy Anthony, director of professional development online at Louisiana State University Online and Continuing Education, explains how LSU's efforts allow the school to quickly address market demands and provide learners with skills that are immediately applicable in the workforce.

The Hayes Innovation Center for Advanced Manufacturing has opened a 50,000-square-foot facility in Austin, Texas, to serve as a co-working space and training center. The center has partnered with Austin Community College to enhance workforce training, including a program for Tesla employees.

Holyoke Community College has increased FAFSA completion by 14% and improved state aid distribution by implementing an early alert system to identify missing paperwork. Established with consultant EAB, the system notifies students of missing documents and encourages advising appointments, allowing financial aid staff and advisers to track progress.

"Quiet cracking," when employees are disengaged, performing poorly and considering an exit, is emerging in the workplace, according to TalentLMS research. The study finds that 54% of workers experience some level of "quiet cracking," often due to job insecurity and lack of training.

Members of Generation Z are entering the workforce with a strong interest in trade careers, having learned from the financial struggles faced by older siblings and parents during the pandemic. These young workers value clear career paths, time off and opportunities for advancement, making it crucial for businesses to offer structured apprenticeships and a positive work environment to attract and retain them.

• The National Center for Education Statistics released college and career readiness data.
• The Urban Institute released a report analyzing earnings up to five years after graduates finish their programs.
• American Student Assistance and Bellwether released a report examining work-based learning initiatives.
• RAND Corporation conducted a study examining the short-term credential landscape in Indiana.

Read more. 

As a member of ACTE's board of directors, you have the opportunity to influence the Association's direction and make a lasting impact on career and technical (CTE) nationwide. Nominations for the ACTE board of directors are open now through June 15. Explore the available positions and get involved. Learn more.