Work Based Learning

Work-Based Learning (WBL) is a core component of Career-Technical Education that connects classroom instruction to real-world experience.

Federal law defines WBL as “sustained interactions with industry or community professionals in real workplace settings, to the extent practicable, or simulated environments at an educational institution that fosters in-depth, firsthand engagement with the tasks required in a given career field, that are aligned to curriculum and instruction.”

Through WBL, students apply their learning in meaningful ways while developing the professional and technical skills needed for success in college, careers, and beyond.

Students are required to complete a minimum of 250 hours of Work-Based Learning aligned to their career pathway. These experiences may be paid or unpaid and are developed in partnership with local employers and industry professionals.

Types of Work-Based Learning Experiences

Students may earn hours through a variety of approved experiences, including:

• Off-Site Placement / Internship – Direct work experience with an employer in a professional setting
• Entrepreneurship – Starting or managing a business, service, or independent venture
• Apprenticeship / Pre-Apprenticeship – Structured training programs aligned to industry standards
• School-Based Enterprise – Student-run businesses operating within the school environment
• Remote or Virtual Placement – Work experiences completed in a virtual or hybrid setting
• Simulated Work Environment – Project-based learning that mirrors real workplace expectations within the classroom

 

All WBL experiences are aligned to Ohio’s career readiness standards and support students in earning the OhioMeansJobs Readiness Seal, a state-recognized credential that demonstrates proficiency in essential workplace skills such as communication, professionalism, teamwork, and critical thinking.

Summer Work-Based Learning Program

The Heights Career Tech Consortium partners with Youth Opportunities Unlimited to offer a dynamic Summer Work-Based Learning Program for rising juniors and seniors.

This six-week program provides students with meaningful, hands-on work experiences with local employers while earning wages and building career readiness skills. Students can work up to 25 hours per week, earning approximately 150 hours of work-based learning over the course of the summer.

Through this partnership, students:

• Gain paid, real-world work experience
• Build professional networks with local employers
• Strengthen skills aligned to the OhioMeansJobs Readiness Seal
• Explore future career opportunities in high-demand industries

 

The Summer WBL Program is a powerful extension of the classroom, helping students transition confidently into the workforce, postsecondary education, or advanced training.