4CD Strategic Goals 2025-2030

Embed future readiness and adaptability into 4CD’s educational programming and operations by fostering innovation, responsiveness, and proactive problem-solving at all levels.

Adopt a future-focused, data-informed approach to address evolving educational, workforce, social, and fiscal demands. Embrace emerging technologies and build strategic partnerships to enhance adaptability, ensuring programs, services, and infrastructure align with emerging needs.

Priority 1

Foster an organizational culture that actively encourages and supports experimentation, innovation, and strategic risk-taking.

Suggested Strategies and Progress Measures

1. Offer professional development for managers to cultivate a leadership approach that encourages experimentation and innovation within their areas.

2. Convene faculty, staff, and administrators committed to driving culture change to explore models from higher education institutions that have effectively promoted a culture of innovation and adaptability.

Priority 2

Design educational programs and learning environments to swiftly adapt to evolving educational, technological, and workforce demands.

Suggested Strategies and Progress Measures

1. Regularly analyze regional labor market data and trends to develop and refine a districtwide strategy that leverages each college’s strengths and potential to address evolving workforce needs effectively.

2. Aligning with Facilities Plans, implement planning and design strategies that create flexible, technology-integrated learning environments that optimize utility and simulate real-world settings.

Priority 3

Embrace emerging technologies, data-informed strategies, and forward-thinking practices to prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world.

Suggested Strategies and Progress Measures

1. Assess opportunities to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into institutional practices, administrative workflows, and student support services to increase efficiency, improve responsiveness, and predict student needs.

2. Convene forums that bring together faculty, staff, and administrators to explore opportunities to engage students with emerging technologies while promoting critical thinking and responsible digital citizenship.

Priority 4

Strengthen the resilience of Contra Costa County communities by advancing a future-ready workforce, providing educational opportunities that promote social mobility, and championing environmental sustainability.

Suggested Strategies and Progress Measures

1. Expand demand-driven, apprenticeship, and ‘earn-and-learn’ models across 4CD.

2. In alignment with Vision 2030, increase with equity the percentage of 4CD students who earn a living wage for the Bay Area by 10%.

3. Strengthen partnerships with workforce development boards, industry councils, and trade organizations to proactively design educational programs that address sector-specific training needs anticipated in Contra Costa County over the next five to ten years.