A good plan turns your ideas into real steps.
Begin With The End In Mind
Think about where you want to end up before you take your first step toward finalizing a career. Make choices today that move you toward the life, outcomes, and impact you want.
Your Plan Can Change
Your plans can change, and that’s okay. Planning simply gives you direction so your choices feel intentional and connected to where you want to go. As you learn and grow, your plan can grow with you.
First, learn the lingo.
As you create a plan, you’ll see new words. Learning these words first makes the next steps of your career planning easier.
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![Book Bag]()
Career Tech
Hands-on learning programs adding value to high school.
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![Flow Chart]()
Course Sequence
Order in which classes should be taken to build skills.
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![Certificate]()
Credential
A certificate or proof showing you have specific skills or training.
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![Diploma]()
Diploma
Official record that you met all graduation requirements.
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![STEM Icons]()
Field of Study
Concentrated academic area studied to build knowledge.
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![Target Arrow Center]()
Goal
A result you are working toward. Guides the steps you take.
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![Calendar]()
Graduation Plan
Guides choices to prepare for learning and training after diploma.
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![Flags marking completion points]()
Milestone
Key marker that shows progress on your plan.
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![Flag]()
Objective
A defined task that helps you reach a bigger goal.
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![Two pin markers showing distance]()
Post Secondary
Learning after high school: college, training, apprenticeships.
Now that you’ve explored careers and noticed the skills and training they require, this is where you turn that insight into a path you can follow.
Select your starting point below, and learn how to create a plan that connects what you’ve learned to what you need.
WHERE ARE YOU TODAY?
MIDDLE SCHOOL
This is where early interests form. You don’t need to choose a career now. You simply need to discover what sparks your curiosity.
You’re figuring out what you like and what you’re good at.
You’re learning what classes and activities open doors later.
You’re trying new experiences to see what fits.
You’re building habits that make school and life smoother.
You’re meeting people who can guide you.
You’re turning interests into direction.
You’re identifying what you’re good at and choosing classes and experiences that strengthen it.
You’re testing pathways through real-world exposure, credentials, and leadership opportunities.
You’re building habits that employers value: responsibility, follow-through, and initiative.
You’re surrounding yourself with mentors, coaches, and professionals who can help you make informed decisions.
HIGH SCHOOL
This is when curiosity becomes commitment.
Now is the time to try, refine, and decide what direction feels right. Take ownership of your path. Every class, credential, and experience matters.
You’ve chosen a direction, and you’re building expertise.
You’re developing technical skills that employers rely on.
You’re applying what you learn in real settings.
You’re building professional credibility through projects, performance, and work ethic.
You’re expanding your network with instructors, supervisors, and industry leaders who can open doors.
You’re preparing to contribute from day one.
AFTER DIPLOMA
This is where direction becomes commitment.
Focus on mastering what you’re learning and proving your value in real-world settings.
You’ve identified the type of job you’re working toward.
You’re completing short-term training or gaining hands-on experience that increases your competitiveness.
You’re showing reliability through consistent attendance, follow-through, and professionalism.
You’re rebuilding connections with supervisors, workforce advisors, or employers who can support your search.
You’re positioning yourself to secure stable employment and move forward with confidence.
JOB SEEKERS
Choose a direction that makes sense for your life right now. You are not starting from scratch. You are building on what you already know.
WHAT’S NEXT.
You’ve built a solid starting point. Head to the next step or view our resources for this step of the career journey.
