ACE offered occupational and job readiness training within the workforce system. The types of training varied based on labor market demands at each of the nine intervention sites. ACE also offered learning assessments at program intake; integrated adult education and basic skills training; student support services, including individual case management and additional academic supports when necessary; and transition services, including job search and placement. The duration of the intervention was 12 months. The exact populations served varied by site; the study describes participants as workers with low skills and low wages. Eligible participants generally needed to possess basic skills, including language proficiency, that would allow them to benefit from the training, and have no significant personal factors that might present barriers to benefitting from the training. The intervention was implemented in nine sites located in Maryland, Connecticut, Georgia, and Texas.
The ACE model aimed to improve employment outcomes for workers with low skills through partnerships between Workforce Investment Boards and community colleges.