Former US Education Secretary Cardona to Lead Connecticut Workforce Effort

Governor Lamont establishes new Career Pathways Commission to connect students to in-demand jobs

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:39pm

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A bold, colorful grid of stylized graduation cap icons in bright shades of blue, green, and orange, conceptually representing the intersection of education and workforce development.A vibrant pop art interpretation of the critical link between education and career pathways, as Connecticut works to align its schools and employers.Meriden Today

Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont has established the Connecticut Career Pathways Commission, tasking former U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona with leading the effort to better align the state's education and workforce systems. The commission will focus on developing a five-year strategic plan to create career pathways, expand industry-recognized credentials, and strengthen employer engagement.

Why it matters

Connecticut is facing a declining workforce and close to 70,000 open positions, with much of the projected job growth in roles that do not require a bachelor's degree. By dedicating high-profile leadership and bringing together stakeholders from education, business, and government, the state aims to improve upward mobility for students and strengthen its long-term economic competitiveness.

The details

The Connecticut Career Pathways Commission will be made up of unpaid volunteers, including leaders from K-12 and higher education, workforce boards, employers, labor representatives, municipal leaders, legislators, and students. Over the next several months, the commission will develop a strategic plan targeting four key areas: career pathway design and delivery, expanding student attainment of industry-recognized credentials, creating a statewide model for work-based learning and employer engagement, and outlining the policy, administrative, and funding changes needed to accomplish these goals.

  • The commission is expected to release a report and recommendations by December 31, 2026.
  • The announcement of Cardona's appointment was first made at the Connecticut Business and Industry Association's 2026 Workforce Summit.

The players

Ned Lamont

The Governor of Connecticut who established the Connecticut Career Pathways Commission by executive order.

Miguel Cardona

The former U.S. Secretary of Education who will lead the Connecticut Career Pathways Commission. Cardona previously served as Connecticut's education commissioner and as an administrator and teacher in Meriden's public school system.

Chris DiPentima

The president and CEO of the Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA), who will sit on the Career Pathways Commission.

Dustin Nord

The director of the CBIA Foundation, which released a report detailing the need for better alignment between schools, state officials, and employers to prepare students for the workforce.

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What they’re saying

“Connecticut's long-term economic competitiveness depends on how well we work together to prepare people not only for the jobs of today but also for the jobs of the future. We must have a system where students and jobseekers can see the full arc of opportunity, a system where employers help shape the programs that prepare their future workforce, and a system where everyone — from classrooms to campuses to companies — is aligned around shared goals and shared outcomes.”

— Ned Lamont, Governor of Connecticut

“He knows what works here in Connecticut, and he knows what works around the country.”

— Ned Lamont, Governor of Connecticut

“We have pockets of excellence across the state. The challenge is systematizing what we know works so this becomes the rule, not the exception.”

— Miguel Cardona, Former U.S. Secretary of Education

“Improving upward mobility for Connecticut students by increasing career pathways in our schools will benefit them, our communities, and our state's economic viability. When our students win, our state wins.”

— Miguel Cardona, Former U.S. Secretary of Education

“Connecticut's economy depends on whether we can connect students to real career opportunities earlier and more effectively. This blueprint focuses on practical steps to reduce barriers, improve coordination, and ensure our education‑to‑workforce system is aligned with the needs of our employers.”

— Dustin Nord, Director, CBIA Foundation

What’s next

The Connecticut Career Pathways Commission is expected to release its report and recommendations by December 31, 2026.

The takeaway

By bringing together leaders from education, business, and government, Connecticut is taking a comprehensive approach to strengthening the connection between its schools and workforce. The success of this effort could serve as a model for other states looking to improve economic competitiveness and upward mobility for students.