BREMERTON, Wash. – Olympic College has been selected to join the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Dual Credit
Washington “Big Blur” Initiative, led by Jobs for the Future (JFF). This competitive grant supports a statewide effort to better connect high school, college and career training for students in grades 11 through 14.
Olympic College hosted a kickoff event for the Big Blur Initiative on October 8, bringing together leaders in higher education, K-12 and the local workforce.
The "Big Blur" initiative brings together high school and college learning with hands-on career training. The initiative "blurs" the final two years of high school with the first two years of college, creating a continuous, streamlined learning experience for students. It expands CTE dual credit programs, allowing students to earn college credit while still in high school and move more quickly toward a degree, certificate or career.
Through this initiative, Olympic College will work with local school districts, employers and workforce partners to create clearer pathways from education to jobs. The focus is on increasing access for underserved students, aligning programs with local job needs, and helping students complete their education faster and at a lower cost.
"The Big Blur Initiative creates clearer pathways for students to earn college credit and build career-ready skills while still in high school," expressed Alyson Rotter, Associate Dean of Outreach & K-12 Partnerships. "By strengthening relationships with local schools and workforce, we can help more students access opportunities for future success.”
Students benefit by getting an early start on college, exploring career options and building skills that match in-demand jobs. This helps reduce the time and money needed to earn a credential while preparing students for stable, family-wage careers. The community also benefits from a stronger workforce, making it easier for local employers to find skilled workers and support economic growth.
"Joining the Big Blur Initiative strengthens Olympic College’s commitment to affordable, accessible pathways from high school to college and careers," said Olympic College President Chantae Recasner. "This partnership will help students succeed while meeting our region’s workforce needs."
The initiative will begin in 2026 with a planning phase focused on building partnerships. Expanded programs and increased student participation are expected during the 2026–2027 academic year, with continued growth in the years that follow.
For more information about the Big Blur Initiative, visit the Jobs for the Future website.
