About

Delaware Pathways

Acquiring both academic and technical skills in combination with meaningful work experience gives students the freedom to choose their life’s path.

What are Delaware Pathways?

Acquiring both academic and technical skills in combination with meaningful work experience gives students the freedom to choose their life’s path.

Delaware Pathways link education and workforce development efforts for youth and provide opportunities for youth to gain work experiences aligned with their career goals through a series of high-quality education programs that link to postsecondary education and careers. Programs and supports are available across Delaware’s local education agencies and a statewide workforce intermediary.

Delaware Pathways helps learners of Career and Technical Education (CTE) to gain real-world skills for success in college and careers they are passionate about!

Empowering Futures through Real-World Skills

At Delaware Pathways, we believe in the power of Career and Technical Education (CTE) to transform the lives of learners by providing them with hands-on experiences that prepare them for the real world. Our state-model programs are designed to help learners explore a range of career options, acquire specific skills, and build a foundation for lifelong learning.

Why Choose Career & Technical Education (CTE)?

1. Hands-on Learning Experience:

CTE offers a unique opportunity for learners to engage in hands-on learning that is directly relevant to their future careers. This practical approach allows students to gain valuable experience and develop the skills needed to excel in their chosen fields.

2. Career Exploration:

Our pathways help students discover their passions by exploring various career options. By experiencing different industries and professions, students can make informed decisions about their future paths.

3. Building Networks:

CTE programs foster connections with peers, educators, and mentors. These relationships provide support, guidance, and opportunities for learners to build a network that will benefit them throughout their careers.

4. College and Career Success:

Pathways lead to numerous opportunities for both college and career success. Our programs prepare learners for postsecondary education by offering college credits and advanced classes while also equipping them with the skills needed for immediate employment.

85%

of families participating in CTE are satisfied with the opportunities to gain skills.

84%

of families are satisfied with the opportunities to explore careers.

73%

of current families plan for their learner to complete a postsecondary degree or credential, compared to 60% of prospective families.

80%

of current families are satisfied with the opportunities to jumpstart postsecondary education through earning college credits.

Strategic Plan

As the path to achieve the American Dream has changed, Delawareans have risen to the occasion. Just a few short years ago we faced a collapsing economy and a growing deficit. The challenges we faced weren’t just the result of a temporary economic downturn, but of a changing world, an economy forever altered by global competition and new technology. In response to these shifts, businesses have found new global markets, workers have invested hundreds of hours in job training, and students have become the first in their families to attend and complete college. These achievements are a reflection of the remarkable talents and character of Delawareans. But we have more to do and new adversities to conquer.

We now confront the incongruous reality that Delaware employers are hiring, but can’t find enough qualified applicants. This is frustrating because we know that many Delawareans could do the work, but may not have the right skills. We can change this trend by better connecting educators and employers. It is our responsibility to provide Delawareans with the bridge to the life they want—workforce training for people who want to upgrade their skills, education that aligns with the knowledge they need in the new economy, and more responsive government that supports their drive to succeed.

That is why we are committed to achieving the Delaware Promise—and ensuring that sixty-five percent of our workforce has a college degree or professional certificate by 2025. And that is why we are investing in new opportunities for youth and adults to partner with employers through Delaware Pathways. The path to middle-class security is not what it was thirty years ago and our approach to career preparation can’t be either. Let’s ensure that all of our youth and adult learners are on a path to fulfill their educational goals and career aspirations.

An incredible amount of work is being done to further the goals outlined in this plan. Now we need to accelerate our effort and keep the Delaware Promise. We hope that you will join us in this extraordinary opportunity. It is work that changes lives, supports our employers, and helps to build a brighter economy.

Sincerely,
Members of the Delaware Pathways Steering Committee

About

Delaware Pathways

What are Delaware Pathways?