On-the-job experiences harness the power of learning through work. Using models such as internships, apprenticeships, mentoring and job shadowing, employers can improve their workforce, while workers build the skills they need to succeed.
Economy-wide, there is already a diverse array of work-and-learn models led by businesses and business organizations that are succeeding in providing students and workers with the skills and experiences they need to move ahead in their careers.
Watch top American CEOs discuss their efforts to close the skills gap through innovative work-and-learn programs.
We developed a list of attributes that reflect quality programs as a basis for companies to build new or adopt current models. We are also focused on finding ways to adapt successful models from one industry into “generic” models that can be implemented in others, such as the 21st Century Competency Based Apprenticeship. We are also providing leadership on designing the work-and-learn models of the future that respond to increasing “virtualization” of both working and learning.
Most recently, we released a new report outlining ways the federal government could improve its support for apprenticeships in the modern economy. Registered Apprenticeship Challenges and Solutions identifies challenges with the current system and offers specific solutions that would encourage employer involvement in the apprenticeship model for career preparation.