Youth CareerConnect (YCC)

Youth CareerConnect (YCC) is a high school-based program that blends academic and career-focused learning to prepare students for both college and careers in high-growth industries. The program targets high school students (grades 9-12) and integrates public school systems with employers, institutions of higher education, the workforce development system, and community partners. YCC includes three core components: (1) preparing students for both college and career through integrated academic and career-focused curriculum, work-readiness training, and postsecondary supports; (2) connecting students to career-track employment through school-based activities (guest speakers, mentoring) and work-based activities (field trips, job shadowing, internships); and (3) offering academic and nonacademic supports through small learning communities and individualized career and academic counseling with individual development plans (IDPs). The program was implemented over four years (2014-2018) across 130 high schools in 18 states and Puerto Rico, serving 31,019 students. Implementation involved partnerships with employers, higher education institutions, and workforce agencies, with services evolving over time as programs matured.