Revised Academy Dates: Programs now begin in October, with more time to register.

Registration Deadlines

Wed, Oct 1 – Leadership Development Academy
Mon, Oct 6 – Counseling & Career Development Leadership Academy
Mon, Oct 15 – CPL (Career Pathways Leadership Certification)

NCPN CONNECT 2026 preconference is optional; virtual capstone follows NCPN.

Professional Development

Professional Learning Academies 2025–2026

Career Pathways Leadership Certification

October 2025 – February 2026 | Virtual + In-Person Capstone

(SAME certification – NEW format)

Program Overview

This Career Pathways Leadership Certification is designed to empower career technical education, adult education, counseling, corrections, and workforce development professionals in building career pathways that are industry-informed and learner-focused.

Grounded in CORD’s Framework for Career Pathways Alignment, this series provides a research-based foundation for systemic improvement and alignment of career pathways. Participants will engage in monthly virtual meetings focusing on best practices and insightful discussions designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of career pathways leaders through a structured, interactive, and collaborative approach. Between sessions, participants will have opportunities for networking and work on learning exercises to reinforce professional growth and practical application.

Participants will develop an action plan focused on strategic pathway implementation and receive a toolbox of resources to engage with P-20, adult education, community, and employer partners.

This academy is worth 15 hours of continuing professional development credit.

Who Should Participate

Career pathways coordinators
Career and Technical Education (CTE) and adult education practitioners
Workforce development personnel
Administrators
Counselors

Schedule & Format

Two-hour virtual sessions on Fridays, 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. CST

October 17, 2025 – The Career Pathways Framework and Ecosystem
November 14, 2025 – Employer Engagement to Support Innovation
December 12, 2025 – Responsive Career Pathway Design
January 23, 2026 – Holistic Learner Support
February 13, 2026 – Continuous Improvement and Sustainability

Leading Change & Influence Forum at NCPN CONNECT 2026: 3-hour Preconference, February 18 (optional)

February 27, 2026 – Strategic Implementation Showcase

Investment

Academy Fee: $750

What’s included: All virtual sessions, materials, preconference registration, and the Leading Change & Influence Forum at NCPN CONNECT 2026 in New Orleans, LA. Travel and general NCPN CONNECT 2026 conference registration are not included.

Ready to Lead?

Register Now: Click here to register.
Questions? Contact Dr. Jennifer Jirous-Rapp, VP – Pathways & Partnerships (jrapp@cord.org).

Deadline to register: Oct 15, 2025