State Initiatives

Work-based learning, including apprenticeships and internships, offer Oklahomans the opportunity to earn a wage while learning valuable professional skills. Apprenticeships and internships also benefit employers by providing the opportunity to develop their ideal workforce and train for specific skills they need.

Career pathways are a workforce development strategy to support workers transitioning from education into the workforce and assist to workers in moving up the ladder in their careers.

Sector Partnerships are industry partnerships among businesses within the same industry and in a shared labor market region. These businesses work with education, workforce development, economic development and other community organizations and partners to address the workforce and competitiveness needs of a targeted industry.

Skillful works with employers, educators, policymakers and others to help the nearly 70% of Americans without college degrees get good jobs based on the skills they have or the skills they can learn – creating new opportunities for success in the digital era.

Oklahoma is partnering with Skillful and OKHR on a skills-based hiring initiative. Skills-based hiring practices help employers fill positions with the right candidate faster and remove barriers to employment for jobseekers, including justice-involved, individuals lacking work experience, and those looking to change careers.

Career Exposure Week is a statewide event that links students to businesses for career exploration opportunities; and allows employers to promote critical occupations in demand industries to inspire and recruit new talent.

OK Military Connection is a collaboration of state partners who come together to host hiring events for current and former service members and their families.