Regional Career Centers

In Oregon, several regional career centers have joined forces to expand career-connected learning opportunities for students while advancing the broader goals of Team Oregon Build (TOB). This collaboration includes the Mid-Willamette Education Consortium (MWEC), Willamette Education Service District (WESD), Willamette Career Academy (WCA), and the Salem-Keizer Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC). Together, these organizations are creating workforce development pathways to help students acquire critical skills and launch meaningful careers.
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The career centers provide students with practical, hands-on experiences that combine academic learning with technical training. Through projects such as building tiny homes for community members in need, students gain valuable experience and certifications in in-demand fields like construction and manufacturing. These initiatives bridge the gap between education and employment, giving students the chance to make tangible contributions to their communities while developing the skills needed for high-wage, high-demand careers.

In addition to technical training, students receive personalized support and participate in social-emotional wellness programs to ensure their success both academically and personally. These resources help students develop resilience, manage stress, and cultivate the interpersonal skills necessary for thriving in professional environments.

The career centers have expanded credit recovery programs, allowing students to stay on track for graduation while gaining industry-relevant skills. The collaboration among MWEC, WESD, WCA, and CTEC facilitates the sharing of resources, expertise, and industry connections, enabling schools to respond quickly to workforce needs while supporting students' individual goals and aspirations.
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This partnership demonstrates the power of cross-sector collaboration, ensuring that Oregon’s workforce development efforts are equitable, responsive, and aligned with industry demands. The coordinated approach of these career centers has helped close skill gaps and broaden access to high-quality career education, creating opportunities for students who may not have otherwise engaged with these pathways.
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The success of this initiative has drawn the attention of state leaders, positioning Oregon as a model for how education, industry, and community organizations can work together to empower students and address critical workforce needs. Through these efforts, Team Oregon Build and its partners are not only building individual careers but also contributing to the economic vitality of communities across Oregon.
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