HB 13-1165: Manufacturing Career Pathway

• Establishes a manufacturing career pathway in Colorado connecting secondary schools, community colleges, four-year institutions, and workforce development programs with multiple entry and exit points for students of all ages.

• Requires the State Board for Community Colleges and Occupational Education to design the pathway by the 2014-15 academic year, including industry-validated stackable certificates, technical skill assessments, academic counseling, and curriculum appropriate for adult learners.

• Mandates the Department of Higher Education post pathway information on CollegeInColorado.org including career awareness, wage data, employment forecasts, program details, and financial aid opportunities.

• Appropriates $559,165 for fiscal year 2013-2014: $84,565 for need-based grants and $474,600 for fee-for-service contracts with state institutions, plus 1.5 FTE for community college system implementation.

• Takes effect August 7, 2013, unless subject to a referendum petition, in which case approval by voters at the November 2014 general election is required.