THE BIG THREE
Putting Colorado Learners on a Path to Success
We believe every Colorado high school student should have free, equitable access to opportunities that help them reach their full potential.
We’re focused on three high-impact priorities – The Big Three – that can help level the playing field for learners of all backgrounds. These opportunities give students the skills, confidence, and momentum they need to succeed beyond graduation:
1
In-demand industry credentials
2
College credit aligned to a clear postsecondary pathway
3
High-quality, real-world, work-based learning
1. In-Demand Industry Credentials
Industry-recognized credentials open doors to high-demand, high-paying jobs. By empowering high school students to obtain certifications before graduation, we ensure they leave with tangible skills valued by employers, setting them on a clear path to career success.
94%
of employers value industry-recognized credentials1
80%
use industry credentials as a primary hiring factor1
59%
of students earning industry credentials pursue further education within two years of high school graduation
1 U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
2 Credential Engine
Lucinda Mares
Holyoke High School Student
“I’m lucky that my high school offers a CDL program, and now I have my commercial driver’s license. It’s such an important opportunity, especially for kids in my region who might not be going to college but want to go straight into agriculture or another trade.”
2. College Credit
Access to college credit in high school saves families money and time while building momentum toward degree completion. These credits should be part of defined workforce pathways that connect education to real-world opportunities.
Students save an average of $3K–$10K in college tuition by earning credits in high school.3
88% of dual enrollment participants enroll in college, compared to 56% of non-participants.4
3 Education Commission of the States
4 Community College Research Center
We need to reimagine our approach to higher education and workforce development to foster an environment where our homegrown talent can thrive.
JARED POLIS | GOVERNOR OF COLORADO
3. Work-Based Learning
Work-based learning offers students hands-on experiences in the workplace, bridging the gap between classroom knowledge and career readiness.
These opportunities empower learners to:
Develop problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities
Apply classroom learning to real-world settings
Explore career options
Build professional networks
Improve postsecondary and employment outcomes
A Vision Shared Across Colorado
The Big Three are not just Colorado Succeeds’ priorities; they are also central to Colorado’s statewide vision for education and workforce readiness. These priorities are reflected in the Colorado Department of Education’s Strategic Plan, the Colorado Talent Pipeline Report from the Colorado Workforce Development Council, and reinforced by the recent Homegrown Talent Coalition report, which highlights new models of collaboration across education, workforce, and economic development. Together, these frameworks show a united commitment from key state agencies and stakeholders to ensure all Colorado learners are prepared for success.
Colorado Succeeds is a coalition of business leaders working to ensure all of Colorado’s learners are educated to their greatest potential, and all of Colorado’s businesses have the talented and innovative homegrown workforce they need to thrive.
We work with business organizations, school districts, and postsecondary partners from across the state to advance smart policy and support implementation — helping turn ideas into impact for students, communities, and Colorado’s economy.
Want to learn more and get involved?
Partner with Colorado Succeeds to help put Colorado Learners on a pathway to success.