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.
Why now?
Work-based learning opportunities span a continuum from workplace tours to youth apprenticeship (and many models in between). While large employers may have the capacity to offer work-based learning experiences for students, small employers often become quickly overwhelmed trying to navigate work-based learning.
Read MoreFrom a policy perspective, 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, and limited coordination across agencies.
Who We Are
A cross-section of public and private sector organizations with a stake in work-based learning, determined to work together to find a better way to ensure Montana students, educators, and businesses are supported by high-quality, accessible, relevant, and measurable work-based learning opportunities.
Teacher Externships - Businesses
Teacher Externships - Educators
Teacher Externship - Businesses & Educators
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. - 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.
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 - 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 and 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.
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. - 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 Philanthropies
- American Jobs For America’s Youth MT
- Aspen Institute
- Billings Public Schools
- Carroll College
- Central Montana Works
- 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 ACTE
- 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
- Kelly Cresswell, Executive Director, Reach Higher Montana
kcresswell@reachhighermontana.org
(406) 422-1275, Ext. 804 - Jason Butcher, Outreach Director, Reach Higher Montana
jbutcher@reachhighermontana.org
(406) 366-0777