New initiative will help working young adults move from low-wage jobs into high-demand, family‑sustaining careers.
Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) is proud to announce the launch of Back on Track, a major new initiative designed to help working young adults transition from unstable, low‑wage jobs into career pathways that offer long-term economic mobility. The initiative is a grant-funded project led by WestEd's Center for Economic Mobility, a national leader in strengthening education-to-employment systems.
The WestEd Center for Economic Mobility partners with regions across the country to analyze labor market needs, strengthen postsecondary and workforce systems, and expand opportunities for individuals in low-wage jobs. Rather than focusing on isolated institutional improvements, WestEd builds coordinated strategies that connect community colleges, employers, workforce organizations, and state agencies.
"We are thrilled to be one of eight colleges nationwide to work with and benefit from WestEd's expertise and additional resources to help us launch new career pathways for our students," said Jason Wood, Vice President of Salt Lake Technical College at SLCC. The initiative goal is to ultimately serve 600–800 students annually at these colleges within a three-year period.
At SLCC, up to three new pathways aligned with regional employer demand will be developed, offering students high-value credentials and strong on-ramps into stable, well-paying careers. By 2029, SLCC will graduate two full cohorts through these new pathways while building capacity to scale successful elements of the model across other programs at the college.
"This project will help us better serve people who are working but trapped in unstable, low-wage employment," said Wood. "Working with employers, we will identify opportunities for professional growth so our graduates can be more successful."
Back on Track is expected to generate meaningful economic impact for students and the region. Graduates will gain access to higher wages and improved employment stability, while employers will benefit from a more robust pipeline of skilled workers. Findings and models developed through this work will also contribute to national learning and can be replicated across community colleges nationwide.