To keep pace with accelerating technology and workplace expectations, high school and technology center students need access to high-level programs and courses that open the doors to further education and careers. The Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) and nine states have launched a far-reaching program to provide rigorous and relevant courses, hands-on projects, new technology, academic standards, career-technical (CT) instruction and teacher preparation for students wanting to do more than enroll in traditional CT programs of study. Designed with the input of business and industry representatives, the new Advanced Career (AC) program is tailored to meet the need for employees who can solve complex problems and meet the challenges of producing 21st-century goods and services. School leaders and teachers attending the 27th annual High Schools That Work (HSTW) Staff Development Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina in the summer of 2013, participated in sessions describing the new AC curricula, courses and authentic projects for students to complete when they choose a higher level of CT instruction. These sessions are described herein.