Yesterday, leaders in business, policy, and education from across Colorado gathered at the capitol building for Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness (PWR) Day at the Capitol, an event dedicated to advancing PWR programs for learners statewide. This event highlighted the progress made and the challenges that remain in ensuring students are equipped for success in a rapidly evolving workforce.
PWR Day at the Capitol was co-hosted by Associated General Contractors, The Attainment Network, CareerWise Colorado, Colorado’s Children’s Campaign, Colorado Community College System, Colorado Education Initiative, Colorado Mountain College, Colorado Rural Schools Alliance, Colorado Succeeds, Ednium, Empower Schools, ReadyCO, Stand for Children Colorado, and Young Invincibles.
Colorado has made important investments in PWR programs, which are essential as more than 90% of the state’s top jobs require some form of postsecondary education or training. However, navigating these opportunities remains complex, often creating barriers for students, families, and educators.
The message from business and education leaders was clear: Colorado must build a more cohesive, accessible system that seamlessly connects K-12 education, postsecondary pathways, and workforce opportunities.
We extend our sincere gratitude to all event attendees, and particularly to the numerous policymakers who took time to show support for PWR, including House Speaker Julie McCluskie, House Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon, Senate Minority Leader Paul Lundeen, Joint Budget Committee Chair Jeff Bridges, Sen. Liza Frizell, Sen. Cathy Kipp, Sen. Scott Bright, Rep. Mary Bradfield, Rep. Rebecca Keltie, Rep. Lori Garcia Sander, and Rep. Javier Mabrey.
Key Highlights from PWR Day at the Capitol
Wes Parham, Vice President of Public Affairs at Pinnacol Assurance and Chair of the Colorado Succeeds Policy Committee, opened the event by emphasizing the importance of a more cohesive PWR system that serves students, families, educators, and the needs of employers. “We need to create a holistic system where we can connect PWR programs in a way that makes sense for everyone involved,” Wes noted. “That means breaking down silos, fostering collaboration, and creating seamless pathways for students.”
House Speaker Julie McCluskie thanked PWR coalition partners for their willingness to take risks and innovate new thinking about how Colorado can be a leader in PWR programs.
“We are working to figure out how we can better support our youth in pursuing their Colorado dream,” the Speaker shared. “And we’re doing that by investing in the Big Blur space between those high school years and college or career years, creating the programs that help them ultimately gain the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.”
The Superintendent of Cañon City Schools, Adam Hartman, shared insights around creating a cohesive value proposition for PWR for students, educators, families, and the overall community, and noted his district’s commitment to work-based learning.
We must ensure school provides immediate, tangible value so students and families know why it matters. The opportunities that arise from industry credentials, college credits, and real-world experience give education meaning and purpose… We have gone all-in on work-based learning because we believe it’s essential—not just for students, but for our entire community.
Adam Hartman, Superintendent, Cañon City SchoolS
Lucinda Mares, a high school student from Holyoke, spoke about how PWR programs have shaped her educational journey. This is a powerful reminder that behind every policy decision are students whose futures depend on access to quality pathways and support.
Lucinda shared, “I’ve always wanted to be an agricultural educator, and I’ve had a really strong ag teacher who’s mentored me tremendously. Through my internship, I spend a lot of time with her, grading papers, doing paperwork, and learning the behind-the-scenes of what she does every day.”
Strengthening the connection between education and workforce development isn’t just about individual success—it’s about ensuring a strong talent pipeline for businesses and a more prosperous future for the state. Colorado must continue investing in and streamlining its PWR system to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive.
Thank you to everyone who attended PWR Day at the Capitol for supporting Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness across Colorado.