Industry credentials are recognitions of a person’s skills, knowledge, and abilities that signal readiness for work and support economic opportunity. They include degrees, industry-recognized certificates, certifications, licenses, apprenticeships, and other documented training outcomes that align with employer demand. Credentials of value are those that are in demand by employers, lead to strong wage and employment outcomes, and can be stacked or transferred across career pathways to support long-term career growth. This page will include a list of the industry credentials available in the San Luis Valley region, helping students, families, and educators understand local opportunities that connect education and training to meaningful careers.
The CDE Industry Credentials page provides information about the industry credential requirement within Colorado’s Graduation Guidelines, explaining that students can earn recognized credentials—such as certifications or licenses—that demonstrate career readiness and align with workforce needs as part of their high school completion plan. The page outlines how industry credentials fit within the broader graduation framework, offers guidance for schools and districts on implementation, and links to resources that support understanding, selecting, and documenting meaningful credentials that prepare students for success after high school. It also includes tools and examples to help educators, students, and families navigate credential options and align them with career goals.