Unlocking Professional Pathways with City Colleges of Chicago
City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) offers a range of innovative programs designed to steer students toward their desired fields of study.
“We have thoughtfully crafted, discipline-specific pathways in place,” shares Shavon Taylor-Booker, associate vice chancellor of Early College Programming at CCC. “This includes our Jump Start pathways, which consist of 15-credit-hour certificate programs in career and technical education. These courses are available for students at our colleges. Additionally, we offer Model pathways, allowing students to complete coursework aimed at careers in IT, construction, advanced manufacturing, and health sciences while still in high school.”
For students enrolled in general education classes intending to pursue further education after high school, CCC has established partnerships with 39 colleges and universities. These institutions recognize Early College coursework completed by CPS high school students, enabling them to save money both immediately and in the long run. Eligible students can attend these classes at no cost, while earning credits that contribute toward their degree programs.
“We ensure that students understand how transfer credits function,” Taylor-Booker emphasizes. “We make it clear which courses fulfill degree requirements. Our goal is to help them navigate the pathway to completing their education with confidence.”
Community Colleges as Catalysts for Economic Growth
CCC is a vital partner in the new initiative, Runway 606, a collaboration involving CCC, the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT), and Chicago Public Schools. This program offers targeted pathways for high school students into technology sectors, such as cybersecurity. Through CCC’s Early College coursework, students can work toward an associate degree and subsequently earn their bachelor’s and master’s degrees from IIT within four years. Runway 606 aspires to expand educational opportunities for underserved communities while creating a steady pipeline of skilled workers to satisfy local business demands.
The Early College program exemplifies how community colleges function as critical economic hubs, enhancing skill development for underrepresented communities. Similar efforts can be seen at Northern Virginia Community College, which operates across six campuses to fulfill local economic needs.
“Our local employers are in search of a workforce equipped with technology skills and adaptability,” states Cynthia Pascal, associate vice president of e-learning at NOVA. “Thus, we’ve created a seamless transition from high school to college to employment, nurturing students with the skills that meet today’s job market demands.”
