Building Connections, Building Workforce; work-based learning opportunities and ways to connect

Abstract

The ARC POWER grant “Building Connections to Grow Capacity: Breaking Down Regional Barriers in the STEM Workforce Pipeline” awarded to Fairmont State and Glenville State aims to develop the STEM workforce in the service region of these two universities by connecting industry, academics and educators, students and other jobseekers, and workforce entities through a Regional Career Services and Workforce Development Collaborative. Both Fairmont State University (FSU) and Glenville State University (GSU) have created career counselor and work-based learning coordinator positions through the grant to develop more job shadowing, micro-internship, and internship opportunities for students.  In addition, we are emphasizing opportunities for STEM-based field trips and hosting industry representatives on campus to talk to students. A unique role developed by the grant are Power Up interns who are students who will participate in industry partnership and work-based learning (WBL) activities. These interns will test and provide feedback on WBL experiences and mentor other students in project activities.  We are interested in talking to interested students and other people who would like to become involved or develop partnerships in grant-related activities.