Building Career Pathways for Resettled Refugees in the United States

The purpose of this paper is to explore career pathways for refugees who have been resettled in third countries. A career pathway for a refugee means, how likely is it that one can find self- sustaining wages and/or a fulfilling profession in their country of resettlement, and how is that process supported by the third country. This paper explores the aim of answering three questions: How is the United States currently addressing career pathways for resettled refugees? What career pathway innovations are happening in other countries? What recommendations could possibly produce better outcomes in the United States? First, it outlines what career pathways are, why they are important, and what are the barriers, through a literature review and secondary sources. Subsequently, it explores how the United States is currently addressing career pathways for resettled refugees, through a literature review and secondary sources. Next, in light of the current situation with Ukraine, it discusses a case study of career pathways of Soviet refugees in the United States during the 1990s, completed by surveying refugees who arrived during that time between the ages of 30-50. Then, it looks at career pathway innovations being employed in Canada and Sweden, through a literature review and secondary sources. Lastly, it offers recommendations that could possibly produce better outcomes in the United States, including recommendations for policies, programs, and businesses. The objective of the paper is to provide recommendations to support third countries to address these issues in myriad ways, in order for refugees to move out of survival jobs and into careers with more sustainable wages, consistent schedules, and ample benefits; which will allow them to feel fulfilled while also contributing to their new homes, communities, and economies.