Helena - Strategic Planning
In simple terms, it is learning about work, at work. Work-based learning happens through several different structures, for example:
Work-site tours and job shadows
Brief, observational, onsite visits to work places.
Internships
Short-term on-the-job experiences (3-6 months). Can be paid or unpaid, focuses on career exploration.
Apprenticeships
1-5 year commitment, pairing classroom instruction with paid, supervised, on-the-job training leading to industry recognized credential(s).
Our Vision
Every young adult in Montana will have multiple pathways to economic self-sufficiency, supported by a statewide work- based learning system that honors the potential of students and addresses the workforce needs of Montana businesses, today and tomorrow.
Work That Matters
Work-based learning (WBL) opportunities span a continuum from workplace tours to apprenticeship (and many models in between).
In addition to building employability skills, WBL experiences help students develop meaning from their classroom learning and explore purposeful career opportunities.
Read MoreEmployers who intentionally cultivate belonging in the workplace for young workers can gain access to future workforce talent. The Montana Work-Based Learning Collaborative works to promote belonging, meaning, well-being, and purpose for all young Montanans by building capacity for high-quality WBL experiences.
There are components of work-based learning in the K-12 education system, the postsecondary education system, and the public workforce system – but no single entry point for students or employers to access them. Our work to improve coordination among agencies and WBL partners benefits Montana’s emerging workforce and Montana’s businesses.
Who We Are
A cross-section of public and private sector organizations with a stake in work-based learning, working together to ensure Montana students, educators, and businesses are supported by high-quality, accessible, relevant, and measurable work-based learning opportunities.
WBLC Employer Survey
Teacher Externships - Educators View
Benefits of Teacher Externships
Grow your talent pipeline through high-quality work-based learning.
- WBL Toolkit for Employers
Resources, tools, and guidance to successfully develop high-quality work-based learning experiences for students. - Frequently Asked Questions
- Montana’s Child Labor Law Reference Guide
- Preparing to Host an Intern
Sample intern job descriptions, ideas for tasks, sample work plans, and more - Montana Registered Apprenticeship Program
- Youth Apprenticeships
A youth apprenticeship is a structured, work-based learning program designed to start when apprentices are in high school. - Montana Workforce System Guide
From the Montana State Workforce Innovation Board. - Host a Teacher Extern
Externships are often transformative for educators, students, and industry partners. Impacting just one teacher allows a company to reach between 20-150 students each year. Contact Jason Butcher to learn more. - Industry Experience = Educator License
Class 4 Career and Technical teaching licenses are issued to those who have industry experience and wish to teach skills within those industries.
Help students connect their classroom learning to their future careers.
- Montana Department of Labor & Industry Career Lab
Educator Resources - Relevant work-based learning policies
Compiled by the Montana School Boards Association - Frequently Asked Questions
- Teacher Externships
Work-based learning isn’t just for kids! Teachers have the opportunity to experience professional work settings in the manufacturing industry.
Contact Jason Butcher to learn more. - Transformational Learning & Advanced Opportunities Grants
The application process for local education agencies to apply for Transformational Learning Grants and Advanced Opportunities Grants opens December 4. Proposals are due January 8. - Industry Experience = Educator License
Class 4 Career and Technical teaching licenses are issued to those who have industry experience and wish to teach skills within those industries. - OPI Work-based Learning Manual and Resource
Explore your career interests through on-the-job learning.
- Plan your Future with Reach Higher Montana
As a student you can do a lot to start preparing for your future. - Work-based Learning Toolkit
Information and guidance for students to quick-start the work-based learning experience. - Frequently Asked Questions
- Find Montana Construction Careers
Visit Build Montana - Interested in a High-Tech career?
Learn about college programs, coding schools, and training. - Explore Healthcare Careers
- Legal Information
Montana’s Child Labor Law Reference Guide
- Accelerate Montana
- AMB West Community Fund
- American Jobs For America’s Youth MT
- Aspen Institute
- Billings Public Schools
- Carroll College
- Chief Dull Knife College
- EdChoice
- Flathead Valley Community College
- Gianforte Family Foundation
- Helena College
- Jobs for Montana's Graduates
- Livingston Community School Collaborative
- Livingston Public Schools
- Miles Community College
- Montana Association for Career and Technical Education
- Montana Chamber Of Commerce
- Montana Dept. of Corrections
- Montana Dept. Of Labor & Industry
- Montana FFA Foundation
- Montana High Tech Business Alliance
- Montana Manufacturing Extension Center
- Montana Office Of Public Instruction
- Montana Primary Care Association
- Montana State Workforce Innovation Board
- Office Of The Commissioner Of Higher Education
- Office Of The Governor
- Reach Higher Montana
- UM Center for Children, Families, and Workforce Development
- Vocational Rehabilitation
- Gabrielle Eklund Rowley
Director, Montana Work-based Learning Collaborative
growley@reachhighermontana.org
(406) 422-6809