Missouri Career Pathways, an initiative of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), was created to prepare high school students to be success ready for the demands of today’s workforce. The initiative connects educators with business partners and post-secondary programs so students can gain the skills and credentials needed to thrive in a competitive labor market. Career Consultants provide support by identifying high-demand careers in each region, building connections between employers and educators, and helping districts deliver career awareness, exploration, and preparation opportunities for all students. Their work also includes coordinating teacher externships that offer first-hand exposure to businesses within a career pathway.
The regional Career Advisors partner with school districts, area career centers, the military, and post-secondary institutions to ensure that Missouri students have the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to make successful transitions after high school. Career Advisors collaborate with districts to strengthen career pathways programs, assist school counselors with the development and implementation of Individual Career and Academic Plans, and support schools in the training and integration of Missouri Connections. They also help coordinate regional and statewide career planning events, including those that highlight nontraditional career opportunities.
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Missouri Career Pathways Regional Consultant/Career Advisor
Mike Bolle
(660) 785-4310
mcbolle@truman.edu