Career Ready Standards (1.0 - 12.0)
The Career Ready Standards (1.0–12.0) outline the essential skills, knowledge, and behaviors students need to succeed in any workplace or creative industry. Flexible by design, these standards emphasize transferable skills that prepare students for employment, postsecondary education, and long-term career growth.
1.0 Academics
1.1 Literacy — Apply academic literacy skills (e.g., reading, writing, speaking, and listening) to design, test, and refine solutions for challenges encountered in authentic industry contexts. View Aligned Modules →
1.2 Applied STEAM — Develop and apply scientific, technical, engineering, artistic, and mathematical skills to industry-specific projects, in cross-industry scenarios, and within the context of a career pathway. View Aligned Modules →
1.3 Cultural & Historical Influences — Investigate historical achievements, accomplishments, and advancements by industry pioneers, innovators, inventors from diverse genres, regions, cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. View Aligned Modules →
1.4 Critical Response — Examine industry-specific case studies and identify key trends, challenges, and innovations. View Aligned Modules →
2.0 Communication
2.1 Professional Communication — Respectfully communicate information and ideas in a variety of professional and educational environments. View Aligned Modules →
2.2 Industry Vocabulary — Use industry-appropriate terminology when discussing projects, writing proposals, and presenting work. View Aligned Modules →
2.3 Oral Communication & Presentation Skills — Apply extemporaneous speaking skills by adapting language and approach in real time to address questions, solve problems, and manage audience or client needs. View Aligned Modules →
2.4 Social Media Networking — Examine and explain the importance of establishing professional social media for the purpose of career-related networking and communication. View Aligned Modules →
2.5 Workplace Writing Formats — Differentiate industry-specific writing processes, formats, and conventions when completing written tasks (e.g., proposals, technical documentation, emails, memos, reports, and presentations). View Aligned Modules →
2.6 Multimedia Communication — Communicate information and ideas to multiple audiences using a variety of media and formats. View Aligned Modules →
2.7 Digital Citizenship — Practice safe, legal, and responsible use of digital technology for communication purposes. View Aligned Modules →
2.8 Meeting Deadlines — Coordinate with cross-functional teams to plan, execute, and evaluate projects, ensuring tasks are completed on schedule and deliverables meet expectations. View Aligned Modules →
2.9 Communication Patterns — Identify recurring structures, terminology, and formats that contribute to clear and aligned communication within an industry. View Aligned Modules →
3.0 Career Planning & Management
3.1 Career Pathways — Research career pathways and identify required education and training, work experience, certifications, and credentials. View Aligned Modules →
3.2 Annual Career Planning — Conduct interest, skill, and aptitude assessments; develop a career plan that is adaptable and attainable; analyze how career planning can affect short- and long-term professional outcomes. View Aligned Modules →
3.3 Networking — Evaluate the importance of professional networking, including establishing and sustaining partnerships and relationships. View Aligned Modules →
3.4 Employment Opportunities — Search for jobs using online search engines; evaluate the application process for internships, apprenticeships, and entry-level positions. View Aligned Modules →
3.5 Understanding & Negotiating Job Offers — Interpret a job offer; practice how to negotiate fair compensation, terms, and benefits relative to individual circumstances. View Aligned Modules →
3.6 Employment Types — Compare and contrast costs, benefits, and tax implications of temporary, permanent, and work-for-hire/freelance employment. View Aligned Modules →
3.7 Professional Organizations & Unions — Research and describe the role of labor unions, guilds, and professional associations in business and government; explain the requirements and processes for membership or affiliation. View Aligned Modules →
3.8 Resumes & Portfolios — Develop a professional resume, personal statement, and industry-specific portfolio that highlights skills, technical proficiencies, and iterative processes. View Aligned Modules →
3.9 Entrepreneurship & Self-Employment — Demonstrate entrepreneurial skills (e.g., adaptability, confidence, discipline, perseverance, vision, and risk-taking) across industry contexts. View Aligned Modules →
4.0 Technology
4.1 Digital Safety & Information Integrity — Practice internet safety, identify malicious activity (e.g., phishing and malware), discern and avoid misinformation, and keep personal information private. View Aligned Modules →
4.2 Business & Collaboration Tools — Use standard business software and online tools to gather information, create documents and presentations, share files, and connect with collaborators or clients. View Aligned Modules →
4.3 Industry-Standard Technology — Use industry-standard hardware, software, and technology to complete tasks accurately, efficiently, and safely. View Aligned Modules →
4.4 Computing Systems — Differentiate and use appropriate industry-standard operating systems, databases, and cloud services for data management. View Aligned Modules →
4.5 Document & Asset Management — Apply industry-standard asset and document tracking, file naming conventions, version control practices, and storage/back-up protocols to file management. View Aligned Modules →
4.6 Industry-Specific Artificial Intelligence (AI) Applications — Evaluate applications, implications, ethics, and responsible use of AI and machine learning in business and industry; analyze the current and future impact of AI technology when career planning. View Aligned Modules →
4.7 AI Responsible Use — Employ AI technology responsibly by writing clear and complex prompts, fact-checking, reviewing, editing, and refining all AI-generated content in alignment with business or organizational policies. View Aligned Modules →
4.8 Emerging Technologies — Analyze industry-specific technological advancements; adapt and innovate with emerging technologies, cross-industry trends, and evolving technological tools. View Aligned Modules →
5.0 Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
5.1 Reasoning & Decision-Making — Use inductive and deductive reasoning to collect and analyze qualitative and quantitative data, make informed decisions, and construct well-supported arguments. View Aligned Modules →
5.2 Accepting & Applying Critique — Accept critique and apply feedback to revise work and improve skills. View Aligned Modules →
5.3 Reflection & Iterative Processes — Use questioning, reflection, and feedback to refine problem-solving, explore multiple approaches, and evaluate the outcomes of each. View Aligned Modules →
5.4 Creative Problem-Solving — Ask purposeful questions, analyze information, and apply logical reasoning to evaluate options, solve problems, and make informed decisions in professional contexts. View Aligned Modules →
5.5 Analyzing Arguments — Examine and evaluate arguments to identify claims, evidence, assumptions, and logical strengths or weaknesses; recognize argumentative techniques and avoid being misled by logical fallacies. View Aligned Modules →
5.6 Constructing Arguments — Develop and present well-reasoned arguments using clear evidence and rhetorical devices (e.g., ethos, pathos, and logos) while maintaining logical consistency and avoiding fallacies. View Aligned Modules →
5.7 Applied Academics — Apply academic subject knowledge to real-world problem solving; apply critical thinking strategies in professional environments to successfully navigate unanticipated situations. View Aligned Modules →
5.8 Systems Thinking — Apply systems thinking to analyze complex problems, identify recurring issues and their causes, and generate solutions to inform decision-making. View Aligned Modules →
5.9 AI & Critical Thinking — Employ analysis and decision-making skills when using AI technology; analyze AI-generated outputs to ensure validity, credibility, and accuracy. View Aligned Modules →
6.0 Health & Safety
6.1 Equipment & Tools — Appropriately and safely handle industry-specific tools, equipment, and personal protective equipment; Apply injury prevention and sanitation techniques in industry settings. View Aligned Modules →
6.2 Workplace Safety — Practice workplace safety as defined by industry-specific regulations, state licensing, and certification standards; identify how safety practices evolve with new technology and industry standards. View Aligned Modules →
6.3 Self Care & Injury Prevention — Practice self-care and injury prevention strategies (e.g., rest, ergonomics, proper nutrition, exercise, and personal hygiene). View Aligned Modules →
6.4 Workplace Culture — Contribute to healthful workplace culture through safety-related decision-making and problem-solving techniques; evaluate how organized labor can secure safe work environments and support financial stability. View Aligned Modules →
6.5 Mental Health & Wellness — Prioritize wellness and mental health needs including physical, emotional, psychological, and social well-being; practice individual and collective strategies for stress management. View Aligned Modules →
6.6 Inclusion & Accountability — Create a respectful and fair workplace by taking personal responsibility for harmful actions and working to repair relationships when conflicts occur. View Aligned Modules →
6.7 Financial Planning & Literacy — Apply financial literacy to analyze cost of living, plan budgets, manage income and expenses, file taxes, make informed spending decisions, and maintain credit responsibly. View Aligned Modules →
6.8 Emergency Preparedness — Evaluate workplace hazards and implement safety, emergency, and disaster preparedness procedures; assess operational continuity, risk management, crisis communication, and mitigation planning. View Aligned Modules →
6.9 Workplace Policies and Worker Rights — Interpret policies, procedures, and regulations for the workplace, including employee rights and responsibilities; examine how unions promote worker voice through collective bargaining, workplace safety, and representation. View Aligned Modules →
7.0 Social & Civic Responsibility
7.1 Ethical Conduct & Workplace Integrity — Demonstrate personal integrity, confidentiality, and ethical behavior in the workplace. View Aligned Modules →
7.2 Cross-Cultural Understanding — Demonstrate cross-cultural understanding through exploration of various resources that represent diverse perspectives and global viewpoints. View Aligned Modules →
7.3 Avoiding Stereotypes — Evaluate individual and collective biases; avoid stereotypes and misrepresentation of individuals, groups, and communities. View Aligned Modules →
7.4 Recognizing & Addressing Bias — Recognize strategies for mitigating bias in industry environments; analyze how individual and collective biases influence decision making (e.g., hiring, promotion, and leadership). View Aligned Modules →
7.5 Civic Responsibility — Analyze how individual choices, collective efforts, and industry practices influence social, economic, and environmental outcomes within communities. View Aligned Modules →
7.6 Inclusive Workplace Practices — Support inclusivity, ensure accessibility, and uplift diverse experiences and perspectives in the workplace. View Aligned Modules →
7.7 Community Service — Engage in initiatives that support communities, promote inclusivity, and advance social good (e.g., volunteering, service learning, mentorship, sustainability programs, and advocacy). View Aligned Modules →
7.8 Industry & Community Connection — Engage in community partnerships, industry-aligned leadership development activities, and student-led community engagement projects. View Aligned Modules →
7.9 Unions and Organized Labor — Explain how unions function as democratic, worker-led organizations and analyze their role in civic engagement and representation. View Aligned Modules →
8.0 Leadership & Management
8.1 Leadership Qualities — Recognize and reflect the traits, responsibilities, and skills of successful employees, leaders, and managers (e.g., emotional intelligence, communication, time management, conflict resolution, and interpersonal skills). View Aligned Modules →
8.2 Responsibility & Accountability — Demonstrate independent initiative, take direction from leaders, ask for help when needed, build positive professional relationships, and follow through with individual responsibilities. View Aligned Modules →
8.3 Work Ethic — Demonstrate independent initiative, time management strategies, versatility, and work ethic in professional environments. View Aligned Modules →
8.4 Constructive Feedback — Provide, accept, and integrate constructive feedback at various stages of a project. View Aligned Modules →
8.5 Leading with Purpose — Demonstrate the ability to lead inclusively and positively, foster teamwork and morale, and assess how leadership decisions impact team dynamics and outcomes. View Aligned Modules →
8.6 Leadership Development & Student Organizations — Participate in leadership development activities and Career Technical Student Organizations (CTSO) to enhance academic preparation, promote career choices, and prepare for employment opportunities. View Aligned Modules →
8.7 Organizational Culture — Analyze organizational culture and apply leadership strategies such as change management, conflict resolution, consensus-building, and communication. View Aligned Modules →
8.8 Outcomes of Successful Leadership — Define the outcomes of successful leadership and management; develop personal management skills to function efficiently and collaboratively in industry environments. View Aligned Modules →
8.9 Organizational Dynamics — Differentiate the roles and responsibilities of employees across an organization, and analyze how hierarchical structure, management styles, and power dynamics impact decision making. View Aligned Modules →
9.0 Collaboration & Teamwork
9.1 Collaboration and Shared Responsibility — Work with teams to establish goals, share responsibilities, and contribute to collective decision-making. View Aligned Modules →
9.2 High-Performing Teams — Demonstrate the characteristics and qualities of successful teams (e.g., cooperation, communication, empathy, and shared decision-making) that support strong collaboration. View Aligned Modules →
9.3 Conflict Management — Navigate disagreements constructively and apply strategies to de-escalate and resolve conflict in collaborative environments. View Aligned Modules →
9.4 Inclusive Teams — Engage with peers, instructors, and collaborators in a professional and respectful manner, actively listening to diverse perspectives and valuing the contributions of others. View Aligned Modules →
9.5 Diverse Perspectives — Respect individual and cultural differences and respond thoughtfully to divergent perspectives and viewpoints to build trust and collaboration within a team. View Aligned Modules →
9.6 Adaptability and Flexibility — Adapt to changing and varied roles and responsibilities when working with teams. View Aligned Modules →
9.7 Time Management — Manage time in collaborative settings by prioritizing tasks, coordinating schedules, meeting deadlines, and supporting teammates to sustain trust and productivity. View Aligned Modules →
9.8 High-Agency Mindset — Take ownership of collective and individual actions and outcomes, demonstrate initiative and persistence, and proactively address challenges while seeking opportunities for growth. View Aligned Modules →
10.0 Creativity & Innovation
10.1 Conditions for Innovation — Create the physical (e.g., flexible workspaces, access to tools and technology) and mental conditions (e.g., growth mindset, autonomy, and trust) that allow for innovation and exploration of new ideas. View Aligned Modules →
10.2 Developing Ideas — Use research, brainstorming, and creative strategies to generate, refine, and expand original concepts. View Aligned Modules →
10.3 Visualization Techniques — Communicate and refine ideas through visual methods (e.g., diagrams, charts, mood boards, illustrations, wireframes, renderings, and storyboards). View Aligned Modules →
10.4 Building & Refining Concepts — Develop, test, and refine concepts through models, mock-ups, or prototypes that move ideas toward implementation. View Aligned Modules →
10.5 Iteration & Feedback — Reflect and ask questions to inform analysis and refinement of work; create multiple versions and/or drafts of a project and apply feedback throughout the process. View Aligned Modules →
10.6 Risk-Taking, Experimentation & Resilience — Explore and test new methods and approaches in safe and responsible ways; embrace uncertainty, pilot ideas, recover from setbacks, and use challenges as opportunities to learn and improve. View Aligned Modules →
10.7 Application & Implementation — Translate innovative concepts into real-world projects, processes, or products that meet identified goals or solve problems. View Aligned Modules →
10.8 Evaluation & Impact — Evaluate innovative outcomes for sustainability and economic impact and apply observations and insights to guide future innovation. View Aligned Modules →
10.9 Collaborative Creativity — Leverage and apply the knowledge, skills, experiences, and strengths of team members to generate original ideas, experiment with approaches, and develop innovative solutions. View Aligned Modules →
11.0 Research & Media Literacy
11.1 Critical Inquiry & Media Analysis — Demonstrate media literacy through critical inquiry, analysis, and reflection. View Aligned Modules →
11.2 Diversity of Perspective — Gather and synthesize information from diverse sources (e.g., research, interviews, observation, and experience) to develop original insight and perspective. View Aligned Modules →
11.3 Citing Sources — Avoid plagiarism and properly cite sources and proprietary information using appropriate formats. View Aligned Modules →
11.4 Industry Trends — Research current and emerging industry-specific technology, equipment, tools, and practices; collect, analyze, and apply quantitative and qualitative data to drive decisions. View Aligned Modules →
11.5 Source Credibility & Bias — Analyze and interpret resources from various sources to assess bias and discern the credibility, quality, and value of information collected online. View Aligned Modules →
11.6 Use of Technology in Research — Follow fair use guidelines, fact-check information, identify and cite source material, and respect intellectual property rights when using technology or web-based research tools. View Aligned Modules →
11.7 Messaging — Create original industry-specific messages (e.g., reports, presentations, digital communications, and product messaging) that demonstrate ethical use of information, clear purpose, and consideration of intended audiences. View Aligned Modules →
12.0 Audience & Behavior
12.1 Emerging Technology — Analyze how emerging technologies and technological trends (e.g., AI, automation, biotechnology, and renewable energy) affect environmental sustainability, community well-being, and economic development. View Aligned Modules →
12.2 Environmental Responsibility — Evaluate and apply practices that reduce environmental impact and support sustainable resource use in industry-specific settings (e.g., lifecycle analysis, sustainable sourcing, resource management, and waste reduction). View Aligned Modules →
12.3 Social Impact — Develop and contribute to industry-specific projects that address social, cultural, environmental, and community needs. View Aligned Modules →
12.4 Audience Awareness — Study and engage with diverse audiences by observing perspectives, behaviors, and needs; examine how social and cultural trends influence communication, decision-making, and adoption of products or practices. View Aligned Modules →
12.5 Consumer Behavior — Evaluate how consumer choices are shaped by technology, data, and trends, and how those choices impact businesses and industries (e.g., algorithm-driven recommendations, data analytics, product reviews, and social influence). View Aligned Modules →
12.6 Economic Impact — Assess how individual and collective behaviors affect local and global economies, including supply chains, markets, and workforce needs. View Aligned Modules →
12.7 Civic & Ethical Responsibility — Examine how industries and individuals can promote ethical practices, accountability, and civic engagement to address societal challenges (e.g., fair labor, ethical sourcing, data privacy, and transparency). View Aligned Modules →
12.8 Adaptation & Change — Evaluate how industries, organizations, and professionals adapt to shifting environmental, social, and economic expectations, and apply strategies for resilience and innovation. View Aligned Modules →
12.9 Long-term Impacts of Decisions — Analyze the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic systems to understand the long-term impacts of decisions (e.g., circular economy models, regenerative agriculture, and sustainable digital technology practices). View Aligned Modules →