Our quickly evolving economy in Central Texas continues to press the need for a credentialed workforce that can meet high labor demands. With the Austin metro continuously ranked in the top 10 for best business climate, places to live, and so many other categories, the future looks robust, to say the least. The Pathways in Technology (P-TECH) model in Early College High Schools can help fill the workforce needs that come with this success.

Ensuring our students are well prepared, then, is without question in everyone’s best interest. Many initiatives and programs are underway to tip the scales, but one such opportunity taking shape in our region allows high school students to take a 13th year to earn an associate degree.

To make this a reality, E3 Alliance is leading a design team with Austin Community College, Workforce Solutions Capital Area, and four school districts – Austin, Del Valle, Elgin, and Manor – using the Pathways in Technology (P-TECH) model within Early College High Schools. Funding is through the Accelerate[ED] grant: Seamless Pathways to Degrees and Careers.

Collaboration among these partners is well underway as we seek to define a sustainable funding and support model that will scale high school, college, and work transitions across the region and state.