Career Connect

This grant project seeks to address a significant skills gap in Orange County’s high-demand Digital Media and Advanced Manufacturing sectors, which have roughly 10,000 annual job openings but produce far fewer qualified graduates than needed. Despite competitive wages exceeding the local living wage, employers struggle to find workers with relevant training, certifications, and hands-on experience. Additionally, equity gaps exist as underrepresented student groups—such as English learners, socioeconomically disadvantaged youth, and students with disabilities—participate in CTE programs at disproportionately low rates. The project aims to close these gaps by aligning high school CTE pathways with community college programs through dual enrollment and articulation agreements, expanding work-based learning and internships, and providing targeted academic and wraparound supports. By focusing on industry-recognized credentials and culturally responsive outreach, the initiative intends to prepare students for high-wage careers, improve workforce readiness, and foster equitable access to career opportunities, all in alignment with regional labor market demands and the Strong Workforce Program goals.

The work plan for the Coastline ROP K12 Strong Workforce Program project focuses primarily on enhancing curriculum, instruction, and work-based learning to address workforce needs in Digital Media and Engineering/Manufacturing. Key activities include developing two new regional internship courses that provide aligned capstone experiences and incorporate industry-recognized certifications like Adobe and OSHA. The project will strategically recruit and support underrepresented student populations by removing barriers such as scheduling conflicts and transportation through after-bell and summer course offerings. Partnerships with local community colleges and industry will ensure alignment with postsecondary pathways and labor market demands, while professional development will embed targeted supports for English Learners and special populations within CTE curriculum. Additional efforts include career exhibit days for middle schools, expanded mentoring and internship opportunities, and integrated student support services aimed at increasing enrollment, engagement, and pathway completion by at least 15% among underserved groups. Sustainability is supported through leveraging existing funds and resources across multiple educational partners, ultimately aiming to prepare a diverse student body for high-wage, high-demand careers through a comprehensive K14 career education continuum.