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The DeBruce Foundation, Indiana Commission for Higher Education, and Indiana Department of Education Collaborate to Enhance Career Coaching Across the State
Partnership uses innovative resources to improve career literacy and workforce readiness
Indianapolis, IN – The Indiana Commission for Higher Education (Commission) and the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) are partnering with The DeBruce Foundation (DeBruce) to strengthen career coaching services and support across Indiana. With Certified Agilities© Coach Training, DeBruce is equipping intermediary organizations and career coaches with resources to help students reach college and career readiness milestones outlined in the Career Coaching Framework.
Since 2022, DeBruce has offered the Agile Work Profiler© (AWP) career assessment to Hoosier students, with over 35,000 uses to date. Building on this success, the new partnership will train several hundred grant-funded Indiana career coaches as Certified Agilities Coaches. Two-day, in-person, regional training sessions will take place across Indiana from October through November 2024.
“This collaboration marks a significant advancement in our efforts to provide comprehensive career coaching support statewide,” said Indiana Commissioner for Higher Education Chris Lowery. “By utilizing The DeBruce Foundation’s Certified Agilities Coach Training, we are setting a high standard for career coaching and ensuring that Hoosier students have access to the most effective career development tools.”
The initiative is part of a broader effort by the Commission, funded by a $25 million Career Coaching Grant from the Indiana General Assembly. This funding supports 28 intermediaries in implementing the Career Coaching Framework statewide, with a focus on providing timely and relevant career information to Indiana students.
Dr. Leigh Anne Taylor Knight, Executive Director and COO of DeBruce expressed excitement about the partnership, saying, “We are proud to work with the Indiana Commission for Higher Education and the Indiana Department of Education to expand career literacy and opportunities in Indiana. Our goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge and resources they need to build successful career paths.”
The partnership underscores Indiana’s commitment to improving career readiness and workforce development through innovative tools and strategies. The combined efforts of DeBruce, with the Commission and IDOE, aim to create a stronger, more prepared workforce for the state’s future.
“Enhancing career coaching is essential to helping more students achieve their unique goals and dreams,” said Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education. “By providing our educators and career coaches with valuable training and resources, we can better equip the next generation with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in whatever they choose for their future.”
More information about the trainings is available on The DeBruce Foundation website (www.debruce.org).
About The DeBruce Foundation
The DeBruce Foundation is a national foundation whose mission is to expand pathways to economic growth and opportunity. The Foundation is committed to helping individuals unlock their potential and find career pathways. By developing solutions such as the Agile Work Profiler, we change how people pursue careers. By partnering strategically, we increase experiences and exposure to widen career opportunities, starting with youth and working across the lifespan. Learn more at www.DeBruce.org.
About the Indiana Commission of Higher Education
Created in 1971, the Indiana Commission for Higher Education plans, coordinates and defines Indiana’s postsecondary education system to align higher learning with the needs of students and the state. The Commission also administers Indiana’s financial aid programs, including the 21st Century Scholars early-college promise scholarship, which celebrated 30 years in 2020. www.in.gov/che
About the Indiana Department of Education
IDOE is dedicated to providing high-quality education for all students across the state, ensuring they are prepared for post-secondary success, whether in college, career, or life. Through collaboration with schools, educators, and communities, IDOE sets and upholds rigorous academic standards, guides legislative updates in education, supports educators through professional development, and provides resources to enhance student learning. IDOE is future-focused, keeping in mind our rapidly changing economy will require continuous education for a growing number of Hoosiers, IDOE encourages increased innovation within their education to workforce continuum to meet the needs of the future economy. IDOE is committed to preparing students for the future through the flexibility to experience work-based learning, earn a credential, and personalize their journey to achieve their unique goals. www.in.gov/doe
