Almost exactly 1 year ago, I sent out an invitation to colleagues in the career and employment counseling community who had contributed to developing theories and models in our field. I asked them for highlights of their theory or model-especially how it could be used by employment counselors. I also asked for case examples, brief interventions, relevant activities, or suggested readings, as well as points they were still pondering or how they would like to see their work further developed.
The response was overwhelming! With limited space, we have worked together to present the "Coles Notes" version of their work, resulting in a single issue with 13 articles by 17 contributors and an annotated reference list that points to 23 more articles, books, and resources. Some of the articles present a fairly comprehensive review of the relevant literature, and others take a more conversational approach. Some are grounded in years of research, and others are in their infancy, taking their first tentative steps in formulating ideas for others to examine. Combined, the articles give us a glimpse into theories and models that are applicable to 21st-century careers. Despite significant differences, there are common threads woven through the articles composing this issue-themes include diversity (Arthur & Collins; Leong; Pope), change and chance (Krumboltz; Schlossberg), contextual and systemic influences (Bright & Pryor; Hansen; McMahon; Niles), constructing careers (Magnusson & Redekopp; Savickas), and sustaining engagement (Amundson; Neault & Pickerell).
All of these approaches could be described as "career responsiveness" (Neault, 2002, p. 14). The context for careers in the 21st century is far from static. As employment counselors, we can draw from the theories and models briefly presented here in order to equip our increasingly diverse clients to proactively respond to the career changes they encounter.
Clearly, with only 48 pages to work with, countless other important theories and models are not included here. My hope is that other journal editors in our field will build on this humble beginning, dedicating space for some of our creative thinkers to further share their "thoughts on theories."
With the publication of this issue, I now pass the baton to Incoming Editor Dale S. Furbish, Incoming Associate Editor Kevin Glavin, and a dedicated team of reviewersmany continuing their tenure and several new reviewers joining the team. I've thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to serve as editor for the past 3 years and learned much through the process. The journal has received international recognition, yet continued to have a practical focus. I hope that you find this issue particularly helpful.