Directory

Connect with education and workforce development organizations that support work-based learning in GO Virginia Region 2. This directory includes key contact information and the opportunities for engagement that each organization offers for employers and students. We gathered this data through interviews and surveys in October and November 2021 and will update it on an ongoing basis.

Work-Based Learning

Work-based learning experiences are “opportunities for students to apply and refine knowledge, attitudes, and skills through professionally coordinated and supervised work experience directly related to career goals” (Virginia Department of Education, 2021).

Work-based learning is essential for students to explore career and employer options. This is a successful learning and training strategy for K-12 students, young adults, college students, adult job seekers, and workers with years of experience.

Common work-based learning models include:

Internship
Cooperative Experience
Clinical Experience
Registered Apprenticeship
Youth Registered Apprenticeship

Service Learning
Job Shadowing
On-the-Job Training (OJT)

High-quality work-based learning provides students with the opportunity to build on their experiences, develop key competencies and skills, and gain a perspective of various workplace cultures. These factors help to develop more confident and competitive graduates who successfully complete their degrees and are ready for work. We hope that positive work experience with mentoring organizations will encourage more graduates to choose to work with the same company or another company within Virginia.