Successful career decision-making requires a good match between the internal (I want to be....) and the external (There is a job as a....). While it is important to hold onto your dreams and aspirations, it is also important to take into account the reality of the world of work.
Labor market information will help you make an informed career decision. Take a moment to learn how to find and use Delawares labor market information. It will save you both time and money.
With a good understanding of the world of work, students can more easily envision how they will fit successfully into that world. Studies suggest that career exploration experiences and opportunities improve academic performance and increase the likelihood that students will complete high school and pursue post-secondary education.
We hope you will find the activities and resources provided on this website a valuable addition to your career development tools. And we hope you will consider sharing your own tried and true activities with other educators throughout the state.
The workforce products contained in this website were funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The products were created by the recipient and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. These products are copyrighted by the institution that created them. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
The U.S. Department of Education developed 16 groups, or clusters, as a way to link school and work. Within each of the clusters, career pathways have been developed. These pathways outline sequences of academic, career, and technical courses and training. Students can use these career clusters to find their best occupational match and to help focus plans for education and training.
Will the occupation you choose provide the lifestyle you want? Will you find happiness and satisfaction in your work? Will you know how to manage your career in a world of continuous change?
Invest in yourself now by building self-awareness, by thoroughly researching occupations, and by taking advantage of quality education and training. Make it your goal to be an informed career decision-maker. It will be worth it!
Is there a young person in your family who would benefit from your guidance and encouragement? If there is, then whether you're the parent, guardian, aunt, grandparent, or distant cousin, start the career conversations early. Your support is vital to your loved ones as they explore career options and transition to the world of work.