PACE: Planning and Career Exploration

The PACE Framework helps students discover their strengths, explore career possibilities, and build a clear path toward their future.

Why PACE Matters

PACE shifts the conversation we have with students.

Instead of asking:
“Will you attend college or go straight into a career?”

PACE encourages a different question:
“What is your career goal—and what are the many ways you can get there?”

By focusing on exploration, planning, and real-world experiences, students gain the tools to make informed decisions about their futures.

The PACE framework was developed by more than 140 cross-sector community members. PACE guides schools in creating a 6-12th grade experience that blends:

  • In-class career exploration

  • Real-world learning experiences

  • Community engagement

  • Career advising and planning

The Four Core Components of PACE

PACE prepares students for the future through four key areas of development.

  1. Self-Knowledge & Self-Awareness
    Helping students understand their strengths, interests, and goals.

  2. Career Awareness & Exploration
    Introducing students to a wide range of industries and career possibilities.

  3. Career Planning & Decision-Making
    Guiding students as they actively plan pathways toward their goals.

  4. Work- and Career-Based Learning
    Providing real-world experiences with employers and community partners.

All while building supporting skills, including financial literacy, employability preparation, and professional networking.

What PACE Looks Like in Action

Opportunities for Students:

  • Explore potential careers and occupations

  • Connect with professionals and mentors

  • Build confidence in their career goals

  • Create personalized pathways to achieve those goals

  • Develop workplace and financial skills

  • Gain exposure to real-world learning experiences

Benefits for the Community:

  • Prepare the next generation of workers

  • Create stronger connections between schools and employers

  • Build a sustainable local talent pipeline

  • Support youth while giving back to the community

The PACE Framework at its Core

Acknowledges each student is different and sets all individuals up for success

Provides student support and advising to explore their passions and dreams

Encourages students to make decisions and plan a pathway that helps them achieve their goals

Calls upon the community to open their doors to allow for the exploration of occupations and career possibilities