Amy MieheWaterloo Career Center What happens when a career center and a community organization join forces to create real opportunities for students? Over the past five years, the Waterloo Career Center and SHIPHT have built a work-based learning partnership that’s changing the game—helping students gain hands-on experience, connect with employers, and step confidently into careers. In this interactive session, we’ll share real stories, dive into the lessons learned, and explore what makes this kind of partnership work. Expect engaging discussions, audience Q&A, and practical exercises to help you bring these ideas to life in your own community. Whether you’re an educator, employer, or community leader, you’ll leave with actionable takeaways and new perspectives to strengthen work-based learning where you are!Objective 1: Explore Lessons from a Successful Partnership- Understand how the five-year collaboration between the Waterloo Career Center and SHIPHT has created impactful work-based learning opportunities and apply best practices to your own initiatives
Objective 2: Identify Key Strategies for Implementation- Learn how to develop and sustain community-industry partnerships that provide students with hands-on experience
Objective 3: Strengthen Employer & Community Collaboration- Discover ways to connect business educators and organizations to build career-ready pathways for students
