This quarter’s policy brief by Capitol Impact delves into key strategies for improving access to higher education in California. It outlines the state’s approach to workforce development through the California Jobs First initiative and evaluates the progress of the Master Plan for Career Education. The brief also examines the Governor’s Proposed 2025-2026 Budget and its potential impact on education and career pathways. In addition, it provides an in-depth analysis of the state’s policies with a focus on goals related to workforce training and career readiness. Considerations are presented for the Sacramento K-16 Collaborative, highlighting opportunities for advocacy and strategic alignment with state goals to enhance career education and college affordability for all learners.