Powerful Career Pathways

CORD helps educators transform disconnected programs into dynamic career pathways—to drive individual economic success, business growth, and community vibrancy.

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Don’t be left behind

In today’s rapidly changing economy, there is immense pressure on schools and colleges to keep pace with emerging technologies’ impact on careers.

Building industry-responsive career pathways requires coordinated ecosystems and engaged employers to create seamless, supportive programs for learners of all ages.

Through CORD’s Framework for Career Pathways Alignment, we’ll guide you in engaging employers and community partners to build the workforce of the future.

FRAMEWORK FOR CAREER PATHWAYS ALIGNMENT

Let CORD be your guide

Through technical assistance and professional development, CORD is your partner in breaking down silos and fostering collaborative growth.

Featured Programs

Professionals across secondary, postsecondary, and adult education turn to NCPN to become career pathways masters. Earn a Career Pathways Leadership certification, attend the annual NCPN CONNECT conference, or invite us to present a workshop tailored to your local needs.

Take your business advisory council to the next level with the Business & Industry Leadership Team (BILT) model. Learn how to strategically engage employers to build industry-responsive programs and foster innovation. Apply for BILT Academy cohort 5! Bonus: Participation is funded by NSF.

Equip students for tomorrow’s jobs. Enhance your courses using free instructional cards, videos, and our STEM Core Resources Toolkit. Integrate employer-valued skills across multiple disciplines to support emerging careers and rapid technology adoption.

Bolster employability skills of entry-level technicians in STEM fields. Tap into our instructional resources, professional development, and network activities to bridge proficiency gaps identified by employers.

Over the last 45 years, CORD has helped thousands of educators and institutions

“CORD excels at providing comprehensive support, genuinely understanding and meeting the needs of those they serve. They innovate in problem-solving for educators, actively listen to pain points, and determine effective solutions. This is why I chose CORD for our big project, as I needed excellent instructional design and contextualized learning.”

Community College President

Events

Career Pathways Leadership Certification Institutes

June 24–25 • Indianapolis, IN

The National Career Pathways Network’s newly updated Career Pathways Leadership Certification series is designed to empower CTE, adult ed, counseling, corrections, and workforce development professionals in building career pathways that are industry-informed and learner focused.

NCPN Connected Conversations: Creating Industry-responsive and Learner-supportive Career Pathways

Oct 18, 2024, through Feb 7, 2025

Join thought leaders in education and industry for this webinar series as they share insights and actionable strategies for building career pathways that align with industry needs and support learner success.

News

CORD Announces BILT Academy Cohort 6: Colleges Leading the Way in Employer Engagement

CORD is pleased to announce the newest members of its national BILT Academy initiative. The 2025 BILT Academy Cohort 6 brings together a diverse group of community and technical colleges

May 12, 2025

Dr. Annette Parker, CORD Board Chair, Featured on IngenioUs Podcast, Shares Career Journey and Vision for Workforce Development

Dr. Annette Parker, President of South Central College and Chair of the CORD Board of Directors, is featured on the IngenioUs podcast, sharing insights from her extensive career in technical