Dr. Kevin J. Fleming is honored to receive the 2025 ACTE Postsecondary Award.

I believe everyone should pursue education or training after high school, but it need not be a traditional college degree…at least not right away. Whether it’s a certificate, associate’s degree, apprenticeship, military training, community service, entrepreneurship, or other credentials, our focus should shift to some form of post-secondary preparation for each individual, aligning education with diverse talents and job opportunities.

Preparing for life after high school requires more than a single plan. It requires thoughtful steps and skill development in four key areas that prepare learners for both college and a career. A strong career today depends on how well you develop academic, life, employability, and technical skills. These skills work together to help you earn a living, create a future, and discover what success actually looks like.

Early college credit opportunities enable students to complete college-level coursework while still in high school and potentially save on tuition fees. This pathway allows students to enter the workforce earlier with a competitive edge and real-world momentum, saving thousands in tuition. But not all paths to early credit are created equal.