Maine Career Pathways

 

The Maine Department of Education serves as the point of contact for the Maine Career Pathways (MCP) program, a statewide collaboration of state agencies, higher education institutions, and other entities, formed to provide career opportunities in high demand and high value occupations for secondary school students and adult learners. The creation of this collaboration reflects Action A.4. of Maine's Economic Development Strategy, which states the need to “establish clear career pathways through partnerships between schools, technical centers, and employers to help students and workers navigate toward high-demand sectors.” 

Individuals are supported with navigational and advising supports and utilize postsecondary credit bearing opportunities and work-based learning experiences with business or industry sectors leading to credential attainment and a job placement.

Pilot Opportunity in 2026

In early 2026, MCP will be releasing a Request for Applications (RFA) for the piloting of several career pathways using the MCP framework. The pathways we seek to pilot include early childhood education and infrastructure/trades. A third pathway in healthcare may be released later in 2026 if funding is made available.

Eligible applicants will include school administrative units (SAUs), high schools, career and technical Schools, adult education programs, as well as community-based organizations.