The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) was recently awarded over $581,000 to lead ExperienceWorks, a work-based learning (WBL) system that leverages GO Virginia Region 3 and Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission (TRRC) investments. The system connects students and young adults to high-skill, high-wage employment opportunities through a variety of career development and WBL opportunities.
“We are grateful for these investments that support robust public and private partnerships that are required to launch the ExperienceWorks framework,” said Dr. Julie Brown, Director of Advanced Learning at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR). “ExperienceWorks aligns existing career development programs and adds capacity, providing multiple opportunities for employers to engage with students and offer hands-on, career-relevant learning and mentoring.”
“The participating school divisions are excited about this opportunity to continue collaborating on programs which benefit their students, faculty, and the region’s business community,” said Dr. Brown. She added, “We’re thankful that the GO Virginia Region 3 Council, the GO Virginia State Board, the Department of Housing and Community Development, and the Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission recognized and endorsed their efforts”.
“ExperienceWorks provides targeted industries with skilled employees for high-wage, high-skill jobs to position their companies for growth and will significantly advance the Region 3 Council’s priorities”, said Randy Lail, Chair, GO Virginia Region 3.
GO Virginia Region 3 will support fifty percent of the cost for an Internship Coordinator and paid internships, work-readiness bootcamps, and teacher externships. The TRRC grant funds will support fifty percent of an Apprenticeship Coordinator position adding capacity for employer outreach and developing apprenticeship positions in partnership with regional employers. This initiative is targeted at high school juniors and seniors. It is designed to create a culture of understanding that apprenticeships are for everyone, with a clear benefit for employers and job seekers.
Participating K12 divisions include the Counties of Amelia, Brunswick, Charlotte, Cumberland, Halifax, Henry, Lunenburg, Martinsville, Mecklenburg, Nottoway, Patrick, Pittsylvania, and Prince Edward, and the Cities of Danville and Martinsville.