NJ A5211

Creates the New Jersey Pathways to Career Opportunities Initiative, operated by the New Jersey Community College Consortium for Workforce and Economic Development, to provide career pathways for students, workers, and job seekers.

Authorizes establishment of Centers of Workforce Innovation offering career pathways in 11 areas including patient care, healthcare technology, manufacturing, supply chain logistics, data science, cybersecurity, software development, renewable energy, and construction.

Requires Centers of Workforce Innovation to develop publicly available curriculum for each career pathway and provide instruction and skills necessary for employment in pathway fields.

Promotes use of Community College Opportunity Grants and other state and federal financial aid for students and incumbent workers, along with expansion of apprenticeship and work-based learning opportunities.

Directs Centers of Workforce Innovation to collaborate with industry leaders, employers, K-12 schools, vocational schools, four-year colleges, unions, and community organizations to expand economic mobility and drive economic growth.