Employers are critical partners to engage in the design and implementation of work-based learning. Employers can play an active role in a variety of ways –from giving input on labor market needs for curriculum development to designing opportunities for students to apply skills at the workplace and serving as business mentors.
Schools and organizations may wish to identify work-based learning activities that allow for flexible employer engagement, recognizing the time commitment required by employers for different types of experiences. Offering a variety of activities can allow a company to increase its participation over time as it sees the benefits of work-based learning.
Intermediary organizations, such as chambers of commerce, workforce boards, and industry associations, can help link administrators with employer communities throughout the state.
Liability
WBL involves the presence of youths in the workplace, which can raise concerns for employers about liability issues and insurance costs. States can help address these concerns by sharing information with employers about state youth employment laws, which may differ by industry, and engaging third parties to provide insurance support.
Legal Guidelines