Advancing American skills, careers, and economic opportunity.
ASCEND — American Skills & Careers for Economic National Development — unites government, industry, and communities to build the workforce that will define the next American century.
Building an America where every citizen can reach their full economic potential.
ASCEND Institute is a national nonprofit dedicated to workforce transformation. We convene federal agencies, universities, employers, and community leaders to close skills gaps, expand career mobility, and strengthen the American economy.
From workforce academies and mentorship networks to research and public policy — every ASCEND initiative is designed for scale, rigor, and measurable national impact.
Read our storyFlagship initiatives with national reach.
ASCEND Workforce Academy
Industry-aligned training pathways in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, cybersecurity, and clean energy.
Learn moreNational Mentorship Network
A cross-sector network matching emerging professionals with senior American leaders.
Learn moreResearch & Policy Center
Nonpartisan research shaping the next generation of American workforce and economic policy.
Learn moreSkills for the industries America needs most.
Employer-designed curricula in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, cybersecurity, clean energy, and AI. Delivered nationally through community colleges, apprenticeship programs, and online cohorts.
- Industry-recognized credentials
- Wraparound support and career navigation
- Employer commitment on day one
A country connected by mentorship.
We connect emerging professionals with seasoned American leaders across every sector. Structured, measurable, and grounded in real career outcomes.
Become a MentorThe evidence base for America's next workforce era.
ASCEND's Research & Policy Center produces nonpartisan analysis on skills, careers, and economic mobility — informing federal, state, and industry decision-makers.
ASCEND works alongside federal agencies, universities, foundations, and industry leaders shaping America's workforce.
Federal Alignment
Programs designed to complement Department of Labor, Commerce, and Education workforce priorities.
National Scale
Operations across all fifty states with local delivery through community and industry partners.
Measurable Impact
Every initiative tied to wage gains, credential attainment, and long-term career mobility.
Build the American workforce of the next century.
Whether you are a leader, funder, employer, mentor, or learner — there is a role for you at ASCEND.