Work Based Learning (WBL)

WBL Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I have to take a WBL course? While there are many other available technical electives (ELC, CMT, BUS, SST, etc.) if you are currently working in a construction related field or wished to find employment in a construction industry taking a WBL course may give you that field experience to make a resume attractive. The answer depends entirely on you.

2. How does taking a WBL course help me? The main purpose of WBL is to get field experience. It can also give you extra days during the week to take additional course since you are not physically going to a class when taking a WBL course.

3. How do I go about taking a WBL course? The first thing you need to do is to email Hanif Miller @ hanif.miller@rccc.edu. Hanif Miller resides at the CBTC Campus on 660 Concord Parkway North in Concord, NC and will be happy to assist you with questions regarding taking a WBL course.

4. What does a WBL course entail? First, there is no physical class that you attend. You simply touch base with Hanif Miller and either you will use your current employer or another to complete your class. You will be given a handbook by Hanif Miller which there are forms that you need to complete. You will also have to complete a three page form for your faculty coordinator (typically instructors within your program of study). This form will be emailed to you by your faculty coordinator. You will have three sections (initial-contact, mid-semester contact, and an exit interview) to fill out electronically. At the end of the semester you simply turn your handbook to Hanif Miller and your electronic fillable form to your faculty coordinator. Upon successfully meeting all the requirements you will get credit for the WBL course.

5. Are there requirements for taking a WBL course? Yes. Haniff Miller will provide details once you contact him.

6. Can I use my employer for the WBL course? Yes. However, if your current employer is not a construction related industry you may want to consider asking Hanif Miller to see if he can place pair you with an employer who can provide you the construction field experience. Working in retail will not help you land that construction job you desire. If your current employer is construction related ask to be tasked with something new that relates to your program of study. For example, if all you do is manual work see if your supervisor will give you opportunities to schedule or plan a project.

7. Can I take more than one WBL course? You can as long as you fulfill all your technical electives. Be mindful of the number of credits. If the program of study requires you have nine (9) technical electives and two WBL courses only amount to eight (8) credits then you will be short of one (1) credit.

8. I have been working in construction. Can I use my previous work experience and waive the WBL course? No. This is not how WBL works. You must sign up for the WBL course, establish duties, and earn a certain amount of hours working during the semester that you signed up for the WBL class.