Career Development Concepts

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Career Cluster

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A grouping of occupations and industries based on commonalities. The U.S. Department of Education defines 16 career clusters to help students explore different career options.

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Career Pathway

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A series of connected education and training programs that allow students to advance over time to better jobs and higher levels of education.

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Apprenticeship

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A system of training where individuals learn a trade or profession through hands-on experience while working under the supervision of a skilled worker, often combined with classroom instruction.

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Certification

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A formal process of verifying an individual's skills and knowledge in a specific field, usually requiring passing an exam or completing specific education or training.

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Academic Requirements

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Educational qualifications, such as courses, degrees, or diplomas, that are needed to pursue a specific career or enter a career pathway.

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Licensure

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A mandatory credentialing process established by law that grants permission to individuals to practice a profession, usually after meeting specific educational and examination criteria.

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Vocational Training

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Education or training focused on teaching the skills and knowledge needed for specific jobs or industries, often found in trades or technical fields.

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Internship

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A temporary position providing on-the-job training for students or recent graduates to gain practical experience in a professional setting.

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Soft Skills

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Non-technical skills related to work, including communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management, essential for career success.

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Industry Certification

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A credential earned by demonstrating competency in a specific field or job, often awarded by industry organizations to confirm a person’s skill level.