Workforce Readiness

• Integration of Theory and Practice 
• WBL connects academic learning with practical application in a workplace setting, reinforcing concepts and skills.
• It provides students with opportunities to explore various career paths, understand industry expectations, and identify their interests and aptitudes.

• WBL focuses on developing both technical and employability skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.  
• It involves collaboration between educational institutions and employers, ensuring that learning experiences are aligned with industry needs and standards.  
• BL activities are designed to be intentional and purposeful, with clear learning objectives and opportunities for reflection and feedback.  

• Job Shadowing: Short-term observation of professionals in a specific field.  

• Internships: More extended, hands-on work experiences that may include specific tasks and projects.  

• Apprenticeships: Structured training programs that combine on-the-job learning with related classroom instruction.  

• Cooperative Education (Co-op): Alternating periods of academic study with paid work experiences in a related field.  

• Mentorships: Pairing students with experienced professionals for guidance and support.  

• Simulated Work Environments: Creating realistic workplace scenarios in a lab or classroom setting.  

WBL is a valuable approach to education that helps students develop relevant skills, make informed career decisions, and prepare successful transitions to post-secondary education and the workforce.  

Student WBL Benefits

• Obtain valuable work experience
• Enhance resume
• Opportunity to get paid
• Explore career options
• Build employability skills for success!

Eligibility Requirements

• WBL is in your major (Add link to PDF if possible!)
• You have a 2.0+ GPA
• You have taken 9+ credit hours

Enrollment Process

1. Talk to your CVCC faculty member or the WBL Office about opportunities
2. Submit a simple WBL electronic application
3. Interview and be placed with an employer
4. WBL will be added to your schedule
5. Your WBL experience starts at the beginning of the semester
6. Electronically log your WBL hours
7. Participate in a mid-term and final evaluation

Students earn academic credit for WORKing!

Employer WBL Benefits

• Gain a pipeline of potential employees
• Have students complete needed special projects
• Fill in employment gaps or cover for vacations
• Paid or unpaid WBL placements
• Partner with CVCC and Faculty

How the WBL Partnership Works

• CVCC faculty pre-screens students; employer selects best fit
• Students work 160 or 320 hours during the semester around classes with a minimum of 10 or 20 hours per week, fall or spring; up to 40 hours per week, summer
• Employer provides training, supervision, and evaluation
• CVCC supports progress throughout the semester

Initial:

• Be connected with relevant CVCC Faculty
• Interview candidates and set 1–2 learning objectives
• Sign electronic WBL Agreement in Symplicity

During Semester:

• Student begins work the first week of the semester
• Faculty visits/meets to understand student progress
• Employer electronically approves student hours
• As the semester ends, employer completes final evaluation

• Earn While You Learn – get paid while gaining valuable skills.
• Debt-Free Education – Receive classroom instruction and on-the-job training without student loans.
• Career-Ready – Graduate with credentials and real-world experience that employers value.
• Take the First Step – Join CAN and build a career that starts strong and lasts a lifetime.

Apply Today [insert link to new application]

• Skilled Workforce Pipeline – Train future employees to meet your exact needs.
• Invest in Local Talent – Support the growth of Catawba County’s workforce and economy.
• Shared Success – Partner with CVCC to create opportunities that benefit both students and industry.
• Shape the Future – Connect with CAN and help us prepare the next generation of skilled professionals.

Become a Partner: [insert link to employer interest form]

1. Business Involvement
Employers are the foundation of every Registered Apprenticeship program.

2. Structured On-the-Job Training
Apprentices receive on-the-job training from an experienced mentor for typically not less than one year.

3. Related Training and Instruction
Apprenticeships combine on-the-job learning with technical education at community colleges, technical schools, apprenticeship training schools, provided online or at the job site.

4. Rewards for Skill Gains
Apprentices receive increases in wages as they gain higher level skills.

5. National Occupational Credential
Registered Apprenticeship programs result in a nationally recognized credential – a 100% guarantee to employers that apprentices are fully qualified for the job.