Pathways to Fusion Collaborative Center*

With the recent developments in fusion energy sciences and technology and the US momentum towards commercialization of fusion, the need for a talented workforce to join the US fusion community has never been greater. Funded by an FES RENEW grant, the Pathways to Fusion Collaborative Center is composed of 16 institutional partners, all subject matter experts in plasma science, fusion engineering, science education/outreach, and/or DEIA. Its mission is to serve as a "user facility" for bourgeoning collaborations by providing resources for students, faculty, and staff; develop and implement assessment tools to gauge the DEIA climate within the institutions to ensure the experience for all is safe and conducive to academic/professional growth; and provide guidance to optimize the collaborations with the help of subject matter experts. The Center's goal is to make sure that each new collaboration establishes linkages with other members to create a well-paved pathway toward the mission of fusion energy and plasma science and technology that centers the experience of all members and ensures a safe environment for their academic and professional growth. We will present on the status and future of the Pathways to Fusion Center.