Strategic Employment Pathway

Explore Strategic Employment

Strategic Employment Overview

Strategic employment is entry-level employment within the industry you're interested in. Entry-level employment provides valuable opportunities for building both the employment soft skills, such as communication and time management, and technical skills needed in your industry. Oftentimes, employers offer additional training and professional development opportunities, called professional upskilling, for devoted entry-level staff to continue advancing. Strategic employment is beneficial to build your professional network and to learn more about an industry before committing to formal education or training, or while enrolled in formal education or training. Don't be discouraged if it takes some time to find an entry-level job in the industry that you're most interested in! Even if you need to find an unrelated job to pay the bills, keep researching, applying to, and preparing for opportunities that interest you. When the right opportunity comes up, you'll be ready. It is typical for people to stay in an entry level role for one to three years while they are building their skills and experience to be eligible for promotion opportunities. Read more about this approach in the Enrollment section below. See the "Applying to Jobs" resources in our video library for tips on resume writing, cover letter writing, interviewing, using LinkedIn, and networking.

Strategic Employment

This short video gives an overview of what this pathway is all about.

Specifics

Cost

No cost, paid opportunity

Typical Format

In-Person Only

Typical Length

1-3 years

Time Commitments

Full-Time, Part-Time

Typical Schedule

Scheduled

Payment Options

Earn while you learn

Possible Outcomes

Skill and/or networking with potential employers

Financial Aid Options

N/A--Paid Opportunity

Best For You If...

You are

Sure of the industry you want to pursue, but not the exact career.
Seeking to build your professional qualifications through related work experience.
Not looking for support to find employment.

You are able to

Meet expectations when there are clear and specific responsibilities and deadlines.
Be a reliable and teachable employee.
Begin & participate in employment at any time throughout the year

You like

Attending class or work in person
Practicing a skill hands-on
Working on a team

Enrollment Information

To pursue this as a strategy, begin by researching the careers in your desired industry that require little or no preparation. Then, research the best companies to work for in the desired industry in your geographic region. Next, follow those companies on LinkedIn, Indeed, or their company website so that you're aware when entry-level employment positions become available. When applying to jobs, it's important to maintain a growth mindset and gather feedback on your job search strategy whenever possible. Get feedback and support from friends, family members, mentors, and even hiring managers in your job search process. For example, ask a hiring manager for feedback on your application or interview if you don't move forward in the hiring process.

Application Type

Selective Application

Entry Qualifications

High School Diploma or Equivalent (GED or HiSET)

Academic Record

High School GPA Does Not Impact Enrollment

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