What is a “Career Tree”?
From Career Tree creator, Mark C. Perna:
The trunk of the Career Tree is the program, pathway, or course of study that leads to a branch system.
The branches are divided into three levels and represent all the careers and occupations possible at all levels of education and experience as a result of completing that program or pathway:
- The first career branch level is the Entry-Level Careers, unlocked as soon as a student completes the program or course of study (such as H.S. diploma/GED, certification).
- The middle level is the Technical Careers that require additional education like a 2-year associate’s degree, advanced certification, licensure, apprenticeship, specialized training, or simply additional experience in this field.
- The third level of career branches is the Professional Careers level, unlocked through additional experience or education like a 4-year degree, master’s or Ph.D., or further specialized training.
The only difference in the three levels is the amount of education and experience it takes to unlock the next level.
A person does not necessarily make more money the higher they move up the Tree. The Career Tree helps show students that there are multiple ways to be successful at all levels of education and experience.
A “for-now” decision allows students to take steps forward without the pressure of a forever decision. A “for-now” decision is one that can change next week, next month, next year—and it’s okay.
Learn more about Mark C. Perna and Career Trees at www.tfsresults.com/career-tree/
We’d love to partner with you and bring Career Trees to your school, organization, career fair, and more: Contact DCEDC
DCEDC was able to bring Career Trees to life through the generousity of a Target program grant to support Youth Career Exploration.
