Principles - American Education Economic Comission

Restore Respect for Technical Education

Re-establish technical and vocational education as essential pathways, similar to successful models in Switzerland, where vocational education is a cornerstone of professional excellence.

Shift the Narrative Around Technical Careers

Promote pride, respect, and societal recognition of technical and skills-based professions, emphasizing their critical role in a thriving economy.

Ensure Access to Early Professional Experience

All students should have equitable access to early entry into the workforce through structured, industry-driven "learn and earn" opportunities such as AEEC’s Professional Career Onboarding Program (PCO), an alternative to traditional apprenticeship models that offers a fast track to real-world experience and income starting as early as age 16.

Empower Early Professional Success

Enhance entry-level technical skill educational programs, allowing young individuals to quickly embark on prosperous professional careers. This model supports informed decisions regarding continued education or immediate entry into the workforce, fostering financial independence.

Foster Long-Term Career Fulfillment

Guide youth toward rewarding, sustainable career choices that provide lifelong opportunities for personal and professional fulfillment, directly addressing their individual aspirations and market demands.

Support National Economic Growth

Develop a highly skilled, healthy, adaptable, and motivated workforce capable of driving economic growth across key national industries. This principle follows proven international practices (notably from innovative countries such as Switzerland), ensuring long-term competitive advantages for the nation.

Respond to Dynamic Industry Demands

Maintain a clear and ongoing focus on the evolving workforce needs of key industries at the forefront of U.S. economic growth, supporting educational institutions in creating offerings and training programs that are always current, relevant, and impactful.

Cultivate Robust Cross-Sector Collaboration

Establish exemplary collaboration frameworks among industries, businesses, educational institutions, and state economic development leaders, creating unified workforce strategy that serve as national benchmarks for effective workforce development.

Re-establish the True Value of Postsecondary Education

Encourage informed decision-making regarding professional career pathways, emphasizing purposeful postsecondary education aligned with clearly defined career objectives, rather than pursuing costly education without a clear vision for its practical application and return on investment.