Chauncy Lennon vice president for learning and work at Lumina | Lumina
Jobs for the Future (JFF), a nonprofit organization focused on transforming education and workforce systems in the United States, has announced a partnership with Lumina Foundation. The collaboration is part of the newly launched FutureReady States initiative, which aims to enhance short-term credential programs that provide economic benefits to working adults and state economies.
JFF will work with Colorado and Alabama to develop training programs that result in short-term credentials, such as certificates and industry certifications, which are valuable in the labor market. As one of five national organizations involved in this initiative, JFF will collaborate with governors' offices and key leaders in both states to evaluate current investments, identify opportunities, and establish goals for program quality and learner outcomes. Additionally, JFF will facilitate peer learning through cross-state meetings.
Recent data from HCM Strategists indicates that states have significantly increased their investment in short-term credential programs, spending $3.8 billion—nearly double the federal investment in similar workforce programs. This trend highlights the growing demand for faster pathways into employment.
Chauncy Lennon, Lumina's vice president for learning and work, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “Millions of adults are looking for fast, affordable ways to gain new skills—and employers want talent today.” He added that FutureReady States could help focus efforts on effective strategies.
Colorado and Alabama join 10 other states receiving guidance from Lumina’s national partners. Maria Flynn, president and CEO at Jobs for the Future, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: “We’re honored to be part of Lumina’s FutureReady States initiative.”
The 18-month planning grant led by JFF aims to position Colorado and Alabama as models for aligning short-term credentials with economic mobility. During a webinar marking the launch of FutureReady States, Colorado Governor Jared Polis spoke about expanding pathways for learners: “With this initiative, we’re really driving conversations about what readiness is...and drive our economic competitiveness.”
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey also commented on the state's efforts: “Alabama has prioritized building a transparent, skills-based credentialing system...Our Alabama Credential Registry is proving that when you align talent with opportunity, everyone wins.”
Alerts Sign-up