Fulfilling the Promise of Career Pathways

Abstract

This chapter describes four major themes that characterize the chapters in this book, addresses the need for career-related research and evaluation of career pathways initiatives, and discusses the importance of a focus on careers and career pathways in light of the increasing pace of change in skill requirements and in-demand jobs and occupations. The themes include (1) the role of career pathways in career transitions; (2) the changing nature of careers and how to craft and navigate meaningful, fulfilling careers in light of these changes; (3) the relevance of career pathways and career paths to organizations and industries; and (4) the use of data to understand workforce characteristics, careers, and career paths and to evaluate the outcomes of career pathways initiatives. Some of the most salient points from the book that are relevant to each of these themes are discussed in this chapter.