FutureReady TN

Postsecondary, Workforce, CTE, and Military Readiness

The Division of Postsecondary, Workforce, CTE, and Military Readiness is committed to ensuring all students graduate high school prepared for success. By prioritizing four key pillars—Credentials of Value, Seamless Transitions, Individualized Advising, and Work-Based Learning— students will be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to thrive in an evolving economy. Through aligned credentials, clear pathways to postsecondary education, personalized advising, and hands-on career experiences, the high school experience is being transformed to ensure every student can pursue a meaningful and rewarding future. The goals and programs associated with each of these pillars not only strengthen workforce readiness but also support Tennessee’s economic growth by bridging education and industry needs. Explore each pillar below to learn how the Division of Postsecondary, Workforce, CTE, and Military Readiness is building a future-ready Tennessee.

Pillar 1: Credentials of Value

Tennessee is dedicated to transforming the high school experience by providing students with access to high-quality postsecondary credentials that foster academic success and workforce readiness. By aligning secondary and postsecondary credentials with labor market demands, students seamlessly transition into in-demand careers.

Pillar Alignment

  • Tennessee Student Industry Credentials of Value
Pillar 2: Seamless Transitions

Tennessee prioritizes seamless transitions from high school to postsecondary education by aligning K-12 and higher education systems. This effort includes highlighting dual enrollment best practices, fostering partnerships with higher education stakeholders, and promoting transparency and equity. These initiatives ensure clear pathways to postsecondary success, supporting the state’s long-term workforce development goals.

Pillar Alignment

  • Accountability and Data Reporting
  • Computer Science (CS)
  • Early Postsecondary Opportunities (EPSO)
  • Innovative School Strategies
  • Licensure and Training Attendance Records
  • Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics STE(A)M
Pillar 3: Individualized Advising

Tennessee is establishing a career coach network to improve individualized advising for students. By exploring opportunities to increase the capacity of career coaches and advising professionals students will be able to make informed decisions regarding their future career options. Career coaches and advising professionals will gain the tools needed to increase high-quality advising so students can transition successfully after high school graduation.

Pillar Alignment

  • Career & Technical Student Organizations (CTSO)
  • Career Coaches
  • CTE Career Clusters & Standards
  • Graduation Requirements
  • Military Readiness
Pillar 4: Work-Based Learning

Tennessee is dedicated to ensuring all students understand how high-quality curriculum and instruction allow them to pursue fulfilling careers in high-growth, in-demand, and high-wage industry sectors through capstone Work-Based Learning (WBL) experiences. The application of academic and technical knowledge in a work setting that involves actual work experience is a critical component of workforce readiness. The resources under this Pillar allow all stakeholders to utilize the WBL Framework and offer immersive experiences where students leverage their interests and aptitudes to accelerate their careers based on labor market needs and available employment opportunities.

Pillar Alignment

  • Work-Based Learning