Professional Career, Technical Education Career Pathways and Network Services

The Harris County Department of Education in Houston, Texas, requires professional career and technical education (CTE) services to establish robust career pathways and network opportunities. The agency seeks to implement profession-based learning experiences that align with in-demand careers to ensure participants achieve measurable economic success. This initiative focuses on incorporating industry-relevant tasks that allow participants to master complex skills while providing clear guidelines for validating those competencies. The scope of work includes developing mechanisms to reward skill gains through academic credit, permanent employment transitions, or promotions for incumbent workers. The agency intends to accelerate academic achievement at both secondary and postsecondary levels by providing real-world contexts for classroom learning. Furthermore, the project must intentionally embed opportunities for participants to build professional networks and understand their long-term career value. The agency requires a framework to measure and monitor progress using transparent metrics that hold all partners accountable for participant and program outcomes. Bidders must be United States-based organizations as the agency limits eligibility to onshore entities. All performance of the work will occur offsite rather than at the agency's physical location. The agency is currently seeking proposals to determine the budget and cost structure for these services. Bidders must submit all clarifying questions regarding the requirements no later than May 27, 2026. Final responses are accepted through digital submission via email or the agency's online portal.