High-Quality Work-Based Learning

Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs prepare students for post-secondary education and the workforce by providing high-quality work-based learning (HQWBL) experiences for students, including apprenticeships, clinical, entrepreneurship, immersive supervised agricultural experience, internships, and school-based enterprise opportunities.

Through workforce development partnerships with local businesses, students in CTE programs have access to many opportunities that will ensure they have the necessary knowledge and skills in the latest technologies and equipment to successfully gain employment and have a fulfilling career with the certainty of a living wage.

Benefits of High-Quality Work-Based Learning

Students in career and technical education (CTE) classes are provided with opportunities related to career goals and interests that are integrated with instruction through school-coordinated, HQWBL experiences that are performed in partnership with local businesses and organizations.

HQWBL provides students with opportunities to:

• Observe, engage, and experience career pathways
• Connect classroom learning to the real world in business or service-oriented work environments
• Practice and develop workplace readiness skills outside of the classroom
• Build a network of industry professionals to support potential future employment opportunities

While many students work during the school year, experiences are also available during the summer months.

Career Awareness and Exploration Opportunities

Upcoming Event

Are you a high school student seeking summer work or planning to enter the workforce, military, or further training after graduation?

• View Employment & Summer Job Fair Info

The CTE Department hosts a variety of events throughout the year to provide additional opportunities for career awareness and exploration, and for students to connect with business partners.

• Career Fairs
• Employment/Summer Job Fair - Business partners share available opportunities.
• Instruction 2 Industry Events - A regional approach to industry professionals from in-demand career fields.
• Signing Day - Celebrate graduating seniors who have obtained an apprenticeship, full-time employment, or committed to military service.
• Work-Based Learning Wednesday

Prince William County Public Schools proudly offers many HQWBL experiences recognized by the Virginia Department of Education.