America's Career Resource Network

America's Career Resource Network (ACRN) consists of state and federal organizations that provide information, resources and training on career and education exploration. ACRN activities are authorized under Section 118 of the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Technical Education Act Amendments of 1998. The network is funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education and operates in every state and territory. 

ACRN is focused on helping students and adults make the best possible decisions about education, training, and career development. ACRN helps learners identify their skills and interests and plan an education and training pathway that makes the most of their natural abilities and leads directly to fulfilling work.  

For teachers and counselors, ACRN provides guides and curricula that help incorporate career development into a high-quality academic program. For students, ACRN emphasizes the connection between academic work and future career options, helping learners of all ages stay focused on achievement.

ACRN provides students, parents, teachers, counselors, and administrators with resources and tools that assist in the career planning process.  Resources for Counselors, such as PowerPoint presentations and brochures, are available to help involve parents in their children's education and career planning.  Resources for Parents are also available and include brochures on topics such as “Help Your Child Identify Interest,” "Help Your Child Make Career Decisions,” and “Work Experience Options for High School Students.”

ACRN urges consideration of the extensive body of evidence of the educational, social, and economic value of career information and services that foster informed and considered career decisions.  The Educational, Social, and Economic Value of Informed and Considered Career Decisions document provides evidence to support that a comprehensive guidance program will promote informed and considered career decisions, thereby having an effect on educational outcomes, social benefits, and economic consequences.