CT State, CTECS Deal Strengthens Talent Pipeline

Connecticut State Community College and the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System have finalized a major workforce development partnership.

Announced Feb. 3, the collaboration is designed to strengthen the transition from technical high schools to community college while better connecting education to workforce demands across the state.  

The partnership creates a clear pathway for students to earn college credit while still enrolled in high school through dual and concurrent enrollment courses.

Students may also be eligible to receive credit for prior learning based on articulated coursework, certifications, and industry-recognized credentials earned during high school.  

The partnership provides a seamless pipeline for students to earn college credit while still in high school through dual enrollment courses or concurrent enrollment courses.

Students may also receive credit for prior learning through articulated high school courses, certifications, and industry-recognized credentials.

Aligning Education, Employer Needs 

Program alignment will focus on high-demand fields such as healthcare, information technology, manufacturing, and hospitality.

Each program will involve employers and workforce boards to provide students with hands-on experiences such as job shadowing, guest speakers, resume reviews, mock interviews, and internships.  

“We are strengthening the bridge between technical education, higher education, and Connecticut’s workforce.”

CTECS’ Alice Pritchard

In addition, students will gain access to business and entrepreneurship programs offered at CT State, helping build skills to support small businesses, start new ventures, and contribute to Connecticut’s broader economic growth.  

“Through this partnership with CT State, we are strengthening the bridge between technical education, higher education, and Connecticut’s workforce,” said CTECS executive director Alice Pritchard.  

Kelli-Marie Valleries, chief workforce officer at the Office of Workforce Strategy, said the collaboration will create “clear, accelerated pathways that prepare students for real careers and ensure our workforce is ready for the jobs of today and tomorrow.” 

‘Landmark Partnership’

State Department of Education commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker said the agreement “builds on the progress Connecticut has made in intentionally connecting learning to the high-demand employment needs of Connecticut’s workforce.” 

John Maduko, interim chancellor of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities, called it a “landmark partnership” that will empower “students to continue their education and confidently step into high-demand careers that will drive the state’s economic future.”

“The result will be a stronger classroom-to-career connection.”

CBIA’s Danielle Cloud

CBIA policy director Danielle Cloud emphasized the importance of the agreement for students and employers alike.

“This is a great step toward creating alignment between all involved,” Cloud said.

“The result will be a stronger classroom-to-career connection and will help students be better equipped to join Connecticut’s workforce.”  

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For more information, contact CBIA’s Danielle Cloud (860.244.1911).