Work-based learning is an opportunity to gain work experience while also learning academic and technical skills. 

Recent research, policy literature, and federal legislation suggest that comprehensive WBL programs contain three key components: the alignment of classroom and workplace learning; application of academic, technical, and employability skills in a work setting; and support from classroom or workplace mentors.

For employers, work-based learning (WBL) is a flexible, hands-on workforce development strategy that allows you to train and evaluate potential talent before making a hiring decision. By partnering with  Tongue Point Job Corps program, your business hosts students or trainees in a real or simulated work environment, giving them practical experience that reinforces their classroom instruction. 

Core components

Real-world application: WBL helps learners connect theoretical knowledge with the practical demands of a job.

Diverse activities: The experience can be tailored to your business's needs, from low-commitment options like job shadowing to long-term programs like paid internships and apprenticeships.

Structured training plan: Work with the program provider to create a formal training plan that aligns with your company's skill needs and the student's learning goals.

On-the-job mentorship: Your employees act as mentors, guiding students through meaningful job tasks and providing direct supervision and feedback.

Continuous evaluation: Performance is evaluated to ensure the student is gaining skills and meeting your expectations. 

Key benefits for your business

Build a talent pipeline: WBL provides a reliable source of pre-screened, motivated, and well-trained future employees.

"Try before you hire": Assess a candidate's skills, work ethic, and cultural fit in a low-risk environment before committing to full-time employment.

Reduce hiring costs: Lower your recruitment and onboarding costs by building relationships with promising candidates who are already familiar with your company's culture and processes.

Customize training: Directly influence the curriculum of a training program to ensure students develop the exact skills your industry and business require.

Increase employee retention: Candidates who complete a WBL program often have higher retention rates because they are better aligned with the company from day one.

Develop current employees: Your existing employees can build their mentorship and leadership skills by acting as supervisors and coaches.

Boost brand reputation: Strengthen your company's image as a community leader invested in developing the local workforce. 

Types of work-based learning

The specific type of WBL can be adapted based on the required skill level and time commitment. 

Observational activities (low commitment)

Job shadowing: A student observes an experienced employee to understand daily tasks and the overall work environment.

Informational interviews: Students meet with professionals to learn about their career paths and the industry.

Workplace tours: Groups of students visit a business to get a general overview of its operations. 

Hands-on experiences (moderate to high commitment)

Internships: Students gain hands-on experience by performing entry-level tasks for a limited time, which can be either paid or unpaid. An informal work experience, where student gain skills while working under education guidance; developing soft and hard skills, personal and professional growth; and a caring, emotional connection.

This means that comprehensive WBL experiences: promote student engagement through mentorship from supervisors, instructors, and WBL coordinators; allow students to develop relationships with industry and community professionals; students are monitored and evaluated by workplace supervisors, classroom instructors, or WBL coordinators.

Partnering with educational and workforce programs offers a structured, streamlined, and low-risk pathway for employers to implement Work-Based Learning (WBL). These organizations act as intermediaries, connecting your business with a pipeline of pre-screened talent and providing the support infrastructure needed for a successful program.