A-B Tech Work-Based Learning
Components of Work-Based learning (WBL) include internships, special projects, mentoring, pre-apprenticeship, hybrid, and registered apprenticeships. In addition, we help industry partners and students connect for that “direct hire” need.
Work-Based learning components help to ensure a well-skilled pipeline for growing industries. Outside of contributing to local and regional economies, these components provide students and graduates with a lifelong ability to support themselves and their families.
Work-Based Learning (WBL) is an academic course that blends classroom learning with practical work experience related to your field of study. This occurs over the course of a semester, and college credit is earned.
- Internship is a non-credit work experience that allows students and recent graduates to gain experience in their field.
- Special Project is a short- or long-term project allowing a student or graduate to enhance their portfolio.
- Pre-Apprenticeship is a program designed to prepare individuals to enter and succeed in a Registered Apprenticeship and has a documented partnership with a Registered Apprenticeship.
- Apprenticeship is a system of work-based learning designed to meet an employer’s needs by providing the employee with structured on-the-job learning and job-related education.
Connecting students to potential employers and investing in Work-Based Learning (WBL) opportunities are critical to strengthening the state's workforce. The number one requirement for businesses in NC right now is skilled, educated talent. In a time when we have suffered setbacks due to the pandemic, companies are having difficulty finding employees with the necessary skills or the desired level of competency-specific knowledge. Many are turning to Registered Apprenticeships.
Apprenticeship offers students a great advantage in the job market. Apprenticeships are built to fit the exact hiring needs of employers. A registered apprenticeship means a training that combines instruction at a worksite during paid employment with classroom education that culminates in an industry-recognized credential.
A-B Tech collaborates with ApprenticeshipNC and the local industry to expand WBL opportunities for our students, business, and industry partners.
View the ApprenticeshipNC Brochure
For more information, contact Debbie Cromwell at debbiecromwell@abtech.edu or call (828) 398-7603.
*NC Community Colleges began using the term “Work-based Learning” (WBL) rather than Cooperative Education (co-op) in fall 2014.
