Refers to connecting academic learning, workforce training, work experience, and community learning into more flexible and coordinated pathways. “Braiding” suggests that different forms of learning remain important on their own while becoming stronger when connected. These strands may include classroom learning, apprenticeships, work-based learning, certifications, military experience, caregiving, civic engagement, and on-the-job training. The concept reflects a growing shift away from treating education and workforce training as separate systems.

Braiding education and training is often associated with apprenticeships, earn-and-learn models, Career & Technical Education (CTE), competency-based education, stackable credentials, dual enrollment, and Learning & Employment Records (LERs).