The North Carolina K-12 Talent Pipeline Toolkit, developed by the NC Chamber Foundation and the NC Department of Public Instruction, aims to strengthen the state’s workforce by improving the readiness of students for careers. The 2022 Employer Needs Survey revealed gaps in employability skills and work experience among job applicants. To address this, the toolkit provides resources for businesses to engage with local schools, helping students understand career pathways and available job opportunities.

Before diving into the toolkit, it is helpful to think through these elements with your internal team:

• Identify your talent needs.
• Determine your resources.
• Consider both short- and long-term plans, strategies, and goals.
• List out your assets.
• Establish how much time and money your business can dedicate to this effort.

Key features of the toolkit include:

• Engagement Strategies: Suggestions for businesses to connect with schools, including identifying talent needs and resources.
• NCBCE Navigator Tool: An online platform that facilitates connections between students and work-based learning opportunities, such as internships and apprenticeships.
• Case Studies: Examples of successful employer initiatives that have helped students explore career paths, such as Atrium Health’s nursing apprenticeship.

The toolkit encourages businesses to take an active role in education to better prepare students for future careers.