Work Based Learning (WBL)

Work Based Learning (WBL) opportunities are planned structured learning experiences.  They assist participants in acquiring specific skills, develop soft skills, build work history, obtain references, boost resumes and allow for participants to test employment options. 

WBL can be:

  • Subsidized (income not counted against basic food assistance) or unsubsidized employment or a hybrid of both,
  • Paid or unpaid internships,
  • On-The-Job Training,
  • Work Experience,
  • Job Shadow
  • Apprenticeships

WBL Desk Aide

Workforce Development Council (WDC) Navigator role

  1. Establish ongoing relationships with industry specific employers developing the opportunity for WBL placements.

  2. Collaborate between employers and case managers to expanded partnerships that will encourage employers to hire Work Based Learning (WBL) candidates.

  3. Provide mentoring and job shadowing opportunities.

  4. Work with Employers on identified skills needed for WBL candidates.

  5. Establish connections and develop relationship between employer, case managers and WBL Candidate.

 WDC Navigator Role

When to refer

Case Managers will be referring RISE participants to the local WDC partner ensuring the following criteria are met:

  • Able to participate in WBL 40 hours per week

  • Childcare in place

  • Transportation needs are met

  • Other support service needs are met

  • Criminal conviction history is known

How to engage the participant

As participants progress in RISE, case managers will begin to gather additional information about the participant’s strengths and assets; needs and challenges; interests and goals in order to complete the Individual Employment Plan (IEP).  The IEP will assist in analyzing the participant’s skills, interests, and other assessment results and examining current labor market information and areas of employability.  The IEP includes immediate steps to obtain employment and long-term strategies to advance in the labor market.

Sectors to refer to

  1. Accommodation and Food Services;

  2. Agriculture

  3. Construction

  4. Healthcare and Social Services;

  5. Information Technology;

  6. Manufacturing; and

  7. Utilities

RISE participants are able to participate in a maximum of 240 hours of subsidized WBL activities. An Exception to the Rule can be submitted to DSHS, for review, for those clients that have a need for more than the 240 hours maximum for WBL.