Propel America

Our country's education and workforce systems have been failing to support low-income Americans, and it is hurting our young people, employers, and our economy alike. Despite progress in national high school graduation and college enrollment rates, college dropout rates are tragically high, with the average dropout burdened by significant debt. At the same time, many employers struggle to find and sustain entry-level talent, especially in mid-skill jobs requiring a post-secondary credential.

Propel believes a better system can exist--one that seamlessly connects education and employment. They do this by bringing together high schools, community colleges, and employers in a unified system of skill-building, job placement, and ongoing planning for young adults. Their model includes a “core course” in or directly after high school, in which students determine their job pathway and begin to prepare for it. Propel then covers the cost of job training, pays a modest stipend, provides mentorship and support, and guarantees a job interview for any “Propel fellow” who successfully completes their training. This process empowers recent high school graduates with the skills, credentials, experiences, and social networks to attain a well-paying job within one year, with opportunities for advancement and higher education.