Work Based Learning

Work-Based Learning (WBL) bridges the gap between classroom education and career success by providing students with hands-on experiences in real workplaces. Through partnerships with local businesses and industries, students gain valuable skills, explore career interests, and build professional networks—all while earning school credit. Ottawa Area ISD offers a variety of WBL opportunities, from short-term job shadows to in-depth internships, ensuring every student can find the right fit for their career goals.

We offer a wide variety of Work-Based Learning experiences to help students explore careers and gain hands-on skills. View experiences below to find the right fit for you!

Job Shadows

A job shadow is a short-term experience that allows students to observe a professional in a career of interest. This is a great opportunity to see what a typical day looks like, ask questions, and gain insight into different career paths—without the commitment of a long-term placement.

Best for: Students exploring career options and wanting to see real workplaces firsthand.

Non-Paid Work Experiences/Interships/Clinicals

These opportunities give students hands-on exposure to a real job setting while developing key workplace skills. These structured experiences help students learn about professional expectations, teamwork, and industry standards, all while receiving mentorship from experienced professionals.

Best for: Students looking to build experience in a field without the pressure of employment.

Co-Op & Capstone Experiences

Co-op and capstone experiences provide students with extended, structured learning in a professional setting. Students are released from their school for a portion of their day and placed with an area employer, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world environment. These experiences typically align with a student’s career pathway or coursework, giving them valuable hands-on training while earning school credit.

Best for: Upper-level students seeking in-depth, career-aligned experiences that prepare them for the workforce or further education.

Regional Work-Based Learning Programs

The Ottawa Area ISD, in collaboration with local high schools, offers a unique Co-Op program that allows students to earn elective school credit while gaining valuable paid work experience.

Best for: Juniors and seniors at qualifying schools. For enrollment details, please contact your high school counselor.

Current participating schools: Allendale, Coopersville (CTE programs only), Hamilton, iCademy, Saugatuck, Spring Lake, West Ottawa, Zeeland East, Zeeland West.

For Students: Your Future Starts Now

Are you ready to explore career paths and gain real-world experience? Work-Based Learning gives you the chance to:

Gain hands-on experience in your field of interest
Build connections with industry professionals
Develop workplace skills that give you a competitive edge
Earn school credit while working in a real job setting

How to Get Started

Talk to Your Career and Tech Ed. Instructor – Find out if WBL fits into your academic plan and what businesses would be a good fit.
Choose Your Career Path – Explore available placements that match your Educational Development Plan (EDP) in industries like healthcare, manufacturing, IT, business, and more.
Apply for a WBL Opportunity – Once your completed application has been processed, collaborate with your work-based learning coordinator to determine the next steps.
Start Learning on the Job – Gain experience, make connections, and develop career-ready skills.

For Parents: Supporting Your Student’s Career Journey

Work-Based Learning helps students transition from school to the workforce with confidence. Whether your child is exploring career options or preparing for college, WBL provides valuable hands-on learning.

Why Enroll Your Student in WBL?

Helps them explore career interests before committing to college, trade school, or entering the workforce.
Builds confidence and real-world problem-solving skills
Strengthens their resume and future job applications
Connects them with mentors and professionals in their field

What You Can Do as a Parent

Encourage Exploration – Talk with your student about their career interests.
Find ways to Participate – Instructors are always looking for business professionals to help students expand their professional networks.
Support Their Experience – Help them balance work, school, and extracurricular activities.

Work-based learning student working at agricultural business placement.

Work-based learning student working at engineering business placement.

For Employers: Invest in the Future Workforce

Partnering with Ottawa Area ISD’s Work-Based Learning program is a great way to support students while building future talent for your industry. By offering job shadows, internships, co-op experiences, and other hands-on learning opportunities, your business can play a key role in preparing the next generation of workers.

Why Partner with us?

Develop Future Talent – Help shape students into career-ready professionals.
Gain Fresh Perspectives – Students bring enthusiasm, creativity, and new ideas.
Strengthen Community Connections – Invest in local education and workforce development.
Support Workforce Needs – Train and mentor potential future employees.

Ways to get Involved

Offer Job Shadows – Give students a glimpse into your industry and daily operations.
Host Interns or Co-Op Students – Provide structured, hands-on training and mentorship.
Engage in Classroom Connections – Speak to students, offer workplace tours, or provide project-based learning experience.

Post to Our Job Board – Connect with Students Today!

Join Us in Building a Stronger Workforce!
If your business is interested in partnering with our WBL program, we’d love to connect with you!