Overview:
Partnering with CCL offers a range of benefits. Businesses can help shape curriculum to meet industry needs, ensuring students gain relevant skills. They can also offer internships and mentorship, building a pipeline of future talent. Additionally, by supporting CCL, businesses demonstrate their commitment to community development.
Below, you'll find our top 3 strategies for industry partners seeking to engage with Career Connected Learning in their own communities.
Strategy 1: Review the CCL Guide for Industry Partners
The CCL Guide for Industry Partners outlines ways in which businesses can engage with CCL, including offering internships, participating in mentorship programs, and providing feedback through advisory committees. It emphasizes the benefits of partnering with CCL, such as access to a skilled talent pool and opportunities for community involvement.
It's an excellent starting point for all things career connected learning.
Overall, the document serves as a valuable resource for industry professionals interested in supporting career readiness initiatives and strengthening the future workforce.
Strategy 2: Establish an Advisory Committee
A Career and Technical Education (CTE) Program Advisory Committee plays a pivotal role in shaping the direction and effectiveness of CTE programs. Comprised of professionals from various sectors within an occupational field, these committees provide valuable insights and expertise to educators. Their input helps in establishing, operating, and evaluating CTE programs, ensuring they remain relevant and aligned with industry needs.
By actively participating in CTE Program Advisory Committees, professionals can make a meaningful impact on the next generation of workers. Their expertise helps ensure that CTE programs provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their chosen careers, ultimately benefiting both individuals and industries alike.
If you're interested in establishing an advisory committee in your area, start by following this link to find your region’s CCL page. Next, we recommend reaching out to the Career Connected Learning Systems Navigator in your area to collaborate on a plan for establishing a local advisory committee.
Additionally, you can reach out the CCL Team by sending us a message using the orange chat at the bottom of your CCL Regional Page.
Strategy 3: Become an ASPIRE Mentor:
An ASPIRE mentor is a volunteer who provides guidance and support to students as they navigate the college application and financial aid process. ASPIRE stands for Access to Student Assistance Programs In Reach of Everyone, and it's a program in Oregon designed to help students achieve their higher education goals. ASPIRE mentors work closely with students, offering advice, resources, and encouragement to help them make informed decisions about their future education and career paths. These mentors play a vital role in empowering students, particularly those from underserved communities, to access and succeed in higher education.
The process of becoming an ASPIRE mentor for Oregon industry partners involves several steps outlined on the ASPIRE website. First, interested industry partners need to complete an online application form. Once the application is received, potential mentors undergo a background check and participate in an interview.
Upon successful completion of these steps, mentors receive training provided by ASPIRE staff. This training equips mentors with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively support and guide students through the college application and financial aid process. After training, mentors are matched with a local high school or community-based organization where they can begin mentoring students.
Throughout the mentoring relationship, ASPIRE provides ongoing support and resources to mentors to ensure they have a positive impact on students' college and career readiness.
Strategy 4: Establish an Apprenticeship:
To initiate an apprenticeship in Oregon, employers are required to formally register their program with the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI). This entails crafting a comprehensive training plan that aligns with industry standards, delineating the specific skills and proficiencies apprentices will acquire throughout the program.
Following program approval, employers proceed to recruit apprentices by advertising job vacancies and conducting interviews to select suitable candidates. Once apprentices are onboarded, they undergo hands-on training facilitated by seasoned professionals within the organization, supplemented by structured classroom instruction provided by a registered apprenticeship program.
Throughout the duration of the apprenticeship, both employers and apprentices receive ongoing support and guidance from BOLI and other relevant entities, ensuring the successful execution and completion of the program.
Final Thoughts.
By offering internships, mentorship, and participating in advisory committees, industry partners can shape the future workforce and foster skilled talent. Additionally, partnering with CCL demonstrates commitment to community development and promotes career readiness, enhancing brand reputation and community ties.
Have additional questions or comments? Still need help? Reach out to the Career Connect Oregon Team by emailing [email protected]. Or click the orange CCL Chat Icon in the bottom-right corner of your browser to start a chat with us!