Job shadows are one-time, short visits (usually about two hours) to a company in your career area. It's a chance to explore various aspects of your career path as well as explore different companies in our area. For many students who go through the program, job shadows companies could also be your potential employers. Whether this is the case or not, it is important to make a good impression. Many times job shadows lead to other work-based learning opportunities.

The primary purposes of a job shadow are to:

• Begin to identify career interests.
• Observe the daily routine of adult workers.
• Gain awareness of the academic, technical, and personal skills required by particular jobs.
• Develop and apply communications skills by interacting with and interviewing workers.
• Realize that different jobs are characterized by different work cultures and working environments.
• Begin to understand the connection between school, work, and achieving goals.

Job shadows can be set up directly by your tech center teacher or the Co-op Coordinator. Transportation is generally the responsibility of the individual student, but, with enough warning, RVTC staff might be able to help out.

Think of your job shadow visit as a job interview. Dress your best, act professional. You never know what opportunities may develop because of your visit.

• Before you visit
• During the Visit
• After the Visit
• General Job Shadowing Tips