Career Exploration Campuses
An initiative to make school-based career exploration and pathway planning possible for Arizona students at every age and stage of their educational journeys.
A Structure for Success
Creating thriving futures for Arizona’s youth and meeting Arizona’s workforce needs are at the heart of the Career Exploration Campus Framework Project.
Co-created by Arizona business, community and education partners and facilitated by the Arizona Business & Education Coalition, the Career Exploration Campus Framework will provide a roadmap for existing school campuses and school systems to embed essential elements of career exploration, skills development and pathway planning throughout every student’s educational journey in ways appropriate for each age and stage.
For those implementing the model with fidelity, an Arizona Career Exploration Campus designation or seal will be awarded to denote this exceptional community asset.
Data shows that learning environments that engage, inspire and prepare students from the earliest grades with the knowledge, experiences, competencies and supports needed to make them - and Arizona - future-ready are essential for the success of our students and our state.
Our ACED Program is an example of what's possible.
Powerful "Whys"
“America’s education system is not changing fast enough to equitably prepare all learners for the future.” – LearnerStudio
Economic Urgency
Arizona businesses need skilled, adaptable workers, yet may employers report difficulty finding candidates with the requisite skills.
Engagement & Purpose
When students see the relevance of their studies, it transforms academic content into a personal roadmap for future success, motivating them to stay engaged and invested in their education.
Increased Access
Too many students lack access and exposure to career insights and supports. This is especially true for students who live in poverty, students with disabilities, and students who live in rural communities.
Adaptability & Future-Ready Skills
The pace of technology and societal change has left traditional educational models struggling to keep up.
Supporting Educators
Arizona’s severe educator shortage reveals an urgent need for innovative, engaging teaching methods to reinvigorate the profession and support students and teachers.
Business & Community Partnerships
Partnerships provide pathways for ongoing professional development, expose educators to industry needs and enrich student learning through mentorship, field trips and internships.
Join the Work
Successful development and implementation requires a collaborative approach by education, business and community.
Contact Tracey Benson, President & CEO, Arizona Business & Education Coalition, to learn how you can be a part of increasing student success and contributing to a thriving and dynamic workforce.
Project Phases & Anticipated Timeline
Partner Development (6 months): November 2024 - April 2025
Research & Design (9 months): April 2025 – December 2025
Pilot Development & Training (6 months): January 2026 - June 2026
Pilot & Evaluation (12 months): July 2026 - June 2027
Implementation (12 months): July 2027 - June 2028