California Governor Unveils Master Plan to Expand Career Opportunities — With or Without a College Degree

California Governor Gavin Newsom recently introduced a bold Master Plan for Career Education as part of his 2024–25 budget proposal, aiming to streamline career pathways and expand access to high-quality jobs — regardless of whether individuals pursue a college degree.

The plan focuses on two primary goals:

• Enhancing coordination between the state’s K-12, higher education, and workforce systems.
• Eliminating structural barriers that make it challenging for Californians to move through education, job training, and public support systems.

Governor Newsom’s proposal prioritizes real-world learning, work-based experience, and the acquisition of in-demand skills that meet the needs of both workers and employers. The Master Plan envisions a system where every Californian can chart a clear, affordable pathway to a fulfilling, well-paying career. If enacted by the state legislature, the plan is expected to benefit up to 250,000 Californians — including 30,000 veterans — and generate billions in long-term economic returns by reducing time-to-degree and training costs.

SHRM strongly supports efforts to strengthen the education-to-employment pipeline and ensure that individuals are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in the modern workforce. This includes promoting greater access to work-based learning opportunities, credential transparency, and skills-first hiring practices that align with business needs.

SHRM will continue to monitor developments on the Governor’s proposal and advocate for policies that connect education, training, and employment in ways that support both workers and workplaces.