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Developing or enhancing program mapping and career pathways that support identified industry needs – MLACE focuses on expanding and improving pathways in fields such as healthcare, public safety, advanced manufacturing, agriculture, and emerging technologies (AI, renewable energy, cybersecurity) to meet current and projected labor demands.

Identifying emerging industries for the development of CTE programming aligned with regional needs – The consortium has identified high-growth sectors, including the Blue Economy, forest management, and renewable energy, and is working to develop training programs aligned with these opportunities.

Increasing access to and awareness of services – Outreach and marketing were identified as significant areas for improvement. Many students and community members are unaware of available programs, support services, and career pathways. Improving visibility is a key priority.

Pooling resources to streamline service provision across providers – MLACE seeks to coordinate across sites to reduce duplication, expand access, and make efficient use of limited resources (e.g., for counseling, digital access, transportation, and wraparound support).

Providing hiring and training services and initiatives relevant to the local workforce, and identifying these specific needs. Employers emphasized the need for workforce-aligned skills, soft skills, and customized training. MLACE is working to create training programs responsive to these industry-identified needs.

Supporting changing industry needs that require retraining and upskilling of workers to prepare for high-demand jobs – Rapid changes in technology and workforce demand (e.g., AI, digital literacy) necessitate continual upskilling and reskilling, especially in rural and underserved populations.

Alignment of curriculum, student assessments, articulation, connecting bridge courses, and/or dual enrollment to support transitions – Inconsistent assessment and placement processes were the lowest-rated area in MLACE’s consortium self-assessment. The plan emphasizes aligning curricula, creating bridge programming, and expanding dual enrollment opportunities.

Increasing counselor/advisor capacity and structured educational planning (IEPs) to ensure student persistence and successful transitions.

Investing in broadband and transportation infrastructure to support regional access.

Building stronger employer and community partnerships to ensure program alignment and inclusivity.

These priorities reflect the findings and recommendations outlined in the MLACE Needs Assessment for CAEP Three-Year Plan 2025 and are embedded in the consortium’s strategic goals for 2025–2028.