In order to power the region’s growth, Mobile’s young people must leave school prepared and confident

Current State

While 82% of Mobile students graduate high school college- and career-ready, far fewer take the next step. Only 35% enroll in a 2- or 4-year college, and just 25% of Mobile County residents hold a postsecondary credential. Many young people are also disconnected from both school and the workforce. A recent report from the Alabama Commission on Higher Education revealed that 14,608 youth ages 16–24 are neither in school nor employed in the Mobile workforce region.

Students know there is a gap between their ambitions and the support they receive. They want individualized guidance and clear pathways starting as early as 8th grade—yet pathways into college, training, or the workforce are often unclear, complicated, or out of reach.

Ambition is strong, but opportunity is uneven. Without clear plans and consistent support, too many young people struggle to transition into meaningful postsecondary options.

Future State

We envision a Mobile where every young person leaves high school with a clear plan—and the confidence and skills to pursue it. Whether enrolling in college, entering advanced training, joining the military, or stepping into a high-wage local job, students are prepared to choose the path that fits their goals.

In this future, talent meets opportunity. Mobile’s young people not only build their own success—they help power the region’s growth.

We are working to create stronger connections between K–12 schools, postsecondary institutions, and local industries so students graduate with clear, relevant pathways into high-growth careers.

Students need hands-on exposure to careers long before graduation. We aim to increase participation in meaningful career exploration and work-based learning.

Young people who are not in school or work deserve strong support to reconnect to career pathways.

Our Approach:

• Develop a countywide workforce roadmap that outlines key career pathways and the skills needed for success.

• Build industry-specific coalitions to guide assessments, align programs, and improve communication between schools and postsecondary institutions.

• Expand dual enrollment and career and technical education programs aligned to high-demand, high-wage industries.

• Create regional CTE centers that offer career-focused school models and reduce duplication of services.

• Align local postsecondary degree programs with workforce and industry standards.

Our Approach:

• Create standardized processes that help schools develop personalized career exploration journeys for students.

• Expand access to work-based learning opportunities such as mentoring, job shadowing, and internships for grades 6–12.

• Increase access to paid apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships in high-demand fields.

• Provide consistent opportunities for industry demonstrations and field trips across all elementary schools.

Our Approach:

• Strengthen alignment among workforce training providers to ensure youth can access high-quality training, job placement, and wraparound supports.

• Partner with high schools to better identify and re-engage out-of-school youth who need career assistance.