Book excerpt: This 52 page guide builds on the recommendations of the US National Commission on Adult Literacy to refocus the adult education system on the goal of preparing individuals who lack skills to be successful in the workplace. It is intended to jumpstart transformation of the system at the ground level. This effort involves stepping up service delivery to individuals who lack the fundamental literacy, English language, basic and work readiness skills they need to succeed economically. Adult education for work is part of a broader effort to build a career pathways system that moves low-skilled adults through a continua of workforce-oriented adult education programs on to postsecondary programs that lead to family-sustaining employment and career advancement. This guide outlines the specific steps policymakers, program administrators and providers can take to begin to transform their current adult education programs to adult education for work. Practical advice is given for getting started. This guide is accompanied by resource aimed at employers. Table of contents: * Introduction * Why adult education at work? * Quality elements of adult education for work programs (Program design. Curriculum and instruction. Assessment and credentialing. High-quality teaching. Support and follow-up services. Connections to the business community. Monitoring and accountability systems) * Final notes (Case studies).