Today, young people need both cross-cutting skills and specialized knowledge to thrive in the nation's rapidly changing economy. Business leaders require skilled talent to innovate and grow. And state and local communities need a workforce ready to lead new economies and industries. These shifts are achievable when states and regions embrace a college and career pathway strategy. Pathways bring together policymakers and leaders in K-12 and higher education, industry, and workforce development, who partner to: (1) Help young people set clear college and career goals, and provide the supports needed to achieve them; (2) Ensure that employers have a diverse talent pipeline of young professionals who have the skills needed to contribute to and lead the workforce; and (3) Build thriving regional and state economies that offer opportunities for economic advancement for all citizens. States across the country are fast-tracking change by building college and career pathways that better prepare young people for economic success while simultaneously addressing skills gaps. This brief offers policy recommendations to state policymakers that can help jumpstart college and career pathways. State examples of success are also discussed. [This brief was produced in collaboration with Great Lakes College and Career Pathways Partnership.]