Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Educator Pipeline: Career Pathway Potential

Abstract

Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Extension programs rely on the expertise of qualified FCS educators to impact individuals, families, and communities through community-based educational programs. Due to a crucial shortage of FCS educators, it is challenging to hire to hire qualified FCS extension educators to fill vacancies in some areas of the country. The purpose of this paper is to discuss findings of a study of perceptions of FCS Extension Program Leaders on future supply and demand issues of FCS extension educators. Strategies for recruitment to ensure career pathways for qualified employees are also considered.