Navigating the Pathway to Your Success
Our Mission
Our Mission
“Navigating all Jackson County residents to productive careers through the pursuit of appropriate career training or post-secondary education.”
The College & Career Access Center (CCAC) is dedicated to guiding students and residents of Jackson County toward a successful post-secondary path. Our team of advisors serves students across the 13 Jackson County school districts, as well as any resident who visits our Jackson Crossing office.
Whether a student’s plan includes a 2- or 4-year college, trade or vocational school, apprenticeships, military enlistment, or direct entry into the workforce, our goal is the same: to ensure each student is prepared and has access to the resources needed to achieve their plan.
Our Vision
By 2030, 60% of all Jackson County residents will have earned a post-secondary credential, putting our community in alignment with the State of Michigan's post-secondary attainment goals.
This vision guides all of our work, from early awareness programs for middle school students to personalized advising for graduating seniors. Every initiative we offer is designed to help students and residents take meaningful steps toward education, training, and careers that meet their goals.
Programs That Support Students
Kids2College / Pathways to Professional Skilled Trades (K2C/PPST)
A middle school program combining classroom learning with guided tours of colleges, manufacturers, and local businesses. Students gain early awareness of college and career opportunities, including skilled trades.
Juniors Over the Local Circuit (JOLC)
All juniors in Jackson County school districts visit three local colleges—Jackson College, Albion College, and Spring Arbor University—to explore college life and learn about career pathways.
1:1 Consultations with Graduating Seniors
Advisors dedicate time at each high school to guide seniors through FAFSA/TIP completion, scholarship applications, college and trade school applications, career assessments, resume building, interviewing skills, and job shadowing or placement opportunities.
Post-Secondary Readiness Curriculum
Expanding our reach into grades 6–11, this curriculum is being piloted in select school districts. It provides workshops, activities, and experiential learning opportunities to help students start planning earlier for their post-secondary college and career paths.
Driving Student Success
Through our programs, dedicated staff, and partnerships with schools, community organizations, and local businesses, the CCAC helps students and residents confidently navigate the next steps toward education, training, and meaningful careers.
Our work is supported by grant funding, community partnerships, and generous donations from supporters like you, ensuring that every student has the resources they need to succeed.
Support Our Mission
You can help students in Jackson County succeed by supporting the CCAC today.
Click here to give and support our mission →
Come Start Your Future!
Your path is waiting—let the CCAC help you take your next step.