Lots of people have learned lots of things over the last few years about certificates and certificate programs. We have been attending the national conference since 2006 and have attended many regional conferences. In those conferences practitioners from leading states shared their best ideas. From that sharing and discussions with ACT, we built models and presentations. Our intention is to accelerate the peer to peer learning that is occuring all around the certificate movement. To those who have shared and contributed - even if indirectly - thank you.
You may find it helpful to start with the Advocates Mission, Vision, Strategies Flyer. It provides a five point framework for top level goals. Then, if you're planning to lead tranformational change read Big Ideas for Transformation and the Eight-Step Alignment Process. Finally, if employer engagement is a major objective, take the time to read the Talent Supply Chain 2025 Vision Statement.
There are individual best practice pages that can be accessed via the links to the left. And, there are document links to the right that contain the key models and frameworks that you will find helpful as you design and launch your certificate program.
List of Best Practices:
1. Balanced goals - reference Advocates framework in Mission, Vision flyer
2. Statewide Alignment - reference Alignment Model
3. Use a proven change leadership model - reference Eight-Step Process
4. Set Big Goals - reference the Big Ideas for Transformation
5. Employer Engagement - via the Employer Handbook and LOCs
6. Employer Engagement - via Talent SCM to create a common vision
7. Employer Engagement - via employer councils and career pathways
8. Sense of Urgency - use Skills Now! to create a common sense of urgency
9. Work Ready Communities - organize to recognize energize community action
10. Advocacy - create Advocates groups to advance the certificate program
11. High School - issue certificates to all students
12. Colleges - issue certificates along with occupational credentials
13. Apprenticeship - utilize certificates for apprenticeship readiness programs
14. Workforce - utilize the certificate as the statewide workforce skills credential
15. Economic Development - Engage employers with LOCs and report certificates
16. Strategic Plan - develop a strategic plan for your certificate program
Rev: 2011.01.09