September 2, 2020

Fellows:
Rachel Carlisle, Edison State Community College
Michael Evans, Ohio Association of Community Colleges
Brandy Mariani, Sinclair Community College
Kristina Willey, Lakeland Community College

Project Advisor:
Vicky Wood, Washington State Community College

Executive Summary:
The pursuit of higher education is often viewed as a means for students to open doors to a more meaningful or lucrative career after college. However, students often lack an understanding of what career opportunities exist in their local communities and the connection between technical programs and transfer pathways to local, in-demand jobs are not always clear to students. Community colleges are unique in that they are able to customize educational programs to help meet regional workforce demands. However, career-related services are often provided to students at the end of their educational journey, which leaves little opportunity for application and implementation. In order to address these challenges, the following document will present a checklist designed to assist Ohio community colleges in developing clear connections between programs and careers and transfer pathways/outcomes. By highlighting career resources throughout the onboarding process, these recommendations provide students with the opportunity to form a coherent connection between their academic endeavors and long-term career goals.