California is launching a pilot program for its new Career Passport, a digital tool designed to help workers connect with employers by highlighting their skills, training and work experience rather than relying solely on college degrees.

The pilot phase began June 17 and runs through Aug. 24 as the state evaluates four vendors competing to build the platform. Officials say the Career Passport will help qualified workers, including those without four-year degrees, gain access to in-demand jobs while making it easier for employers to identify talent.

The initiative is part of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Master Plan for Career Education and reflects California’s broader effort to promote skills-based hiring. The digital tool will allow users to securely share verified records of their education, job training, military service, work experience and professional credentials with potential employers.

“We’re working to connect qualified Californians to employment opportunities they may have otherwise been overlooked for,” said Newsom. “California’s Career Passport will be a win-win for our workforce, ensuring that relevant skills, credentials and real-world experience are recognized, and that capable workers are not being filtered out simply because they lack a four-year degree.”

State officials say the Career Passport will combine traditional academic records, such as high school and college transcripts, with skills and credentials earned outside the classroom. The approach, known as a Learning and Employment Record, is intended to give employers a more complete picture of an applicant’s qualifications.

Labor and Workforce Development Agency Secretary Stewart Knox said the platform will help create stronger links between education and career opportunities.

“The Career Passport will create connected pathways that help workers and students gain the skills and opportunities they need to thrive,” said Knox. “California is committed to ensuring every person has access to family sustaining careers by building a workforce system that starts with the realities of workers, no matter where they begin.”

The program is being developed in partnership with the California Community Colleges system and will involve collaboration among state agencies, educational institutions, workforce organizations and employers.

Officials say the Career Passport builds on California’s workforce development efforts, including registered apprenticeships and earn-and-learn programs.

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Bo Tefu, contributed to this report.