OVERVIEW
Through an employer-led process, Advancing San Diego verifies educational programs that are meeting (or exceeding) industry expectations in five key areas. Programs that meet the standards set by employers are publicly recognized as Verified Programs of Talent (formerly called ‘Preferred Providers’). The application is a two-part process: 1) A written application evaluating enrollment and completion data as well as curriculum; 2) In-person event where education programs have the opportunity to network with industry and share their diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. Scores from both parts of the application are combined to determine designation. All applicants will receive feedback after the review process. Interested programs who have not previously been designated can apply below once applications open. Recognized programs do not need to reapply to maintain their status.
Programs are assessed in five key areas:

BENEFITS:
Programs that are verified by employers join a network of programs that benefit from:
- Employer recognized curriculum.
- A spot on EDC’s “short-list” for industry partnerships.
- Networking opportunities with regional employers and workforce partners.
- Public recognition through EDC’s marketing channels, feature on EDC’s talent dashboard, and highlights on EDC’s blog.
- Access to paid work-based learning opportunities for students.
Timeline

Resources
- Verified Program application for business (click to email EDC for unique link)
- Verified Program application for computing (click to email EDC for unique link)
- Verified Program application for engineering (click to email EDC for unique link)
Verified programs marketing toolkit
For more resources, read the Talent Demand Reports to fully understand what employers are looking for in a Verified Program.
Questions? Contact EDC or visit AdvancingSD.org.

Bridgette Coleman
Manager, Talent Initiatives