Launched in January 2000, the Ferris State University Partnership for Career Decision-Making is a research initiative to examine how young people choose careers and career paths, what factors influence those decisions and whether it is feasible to direct students toward high-demand careers. Chaired by Ferris President William Sederburg and Michigan Lt. Governor Dick Posthumus, the Partnership consists of representatives from the health-care and technology industries, statewide business interests, higher education and state government.

The Partnership has conducted a series of four statewide telephone surveys targeting three critical players in the career decision-making process-Michigan young people, parents and educators. The surveys assessed their perceptions with regard to specific career or education options and what factors have the greatest influence on the career decisions of young people.

For complete reports and research conducted by the Partnership for Career Decision-Making, go to:  www.ferris.edu/partnership