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Students: Prepare for WBL

In order for students to be successful and get the most out of Work-Based Learning, students must receive specific preparation. In the Appendix section of this handbook, there are planning and implementation tools provided for most types of WBL. The following actions are also recommended as preparation for successful WBL:

  • Complete career interest surveys in CaliforniaCollege.edu
  • Enroll in a CTE pathway
  • Obtain a Work Permit for each school year (California Work Permits)
  • Complete all permission slips for off campus WBL
  • PCS Internship/Job Shadow Permission Slip
  • Prepare a professional resume and cover letter tailored to each opportunity
  • Practice interview skills and be prepared to discuss your interests, skills, and goals
  • Follow application instructions carefully and submit all required materials by deadline
  • Follow up with employers after applying to express continued interest and enthusiasm

Work-Based Learning Opportunities


  • Fox Home Health

    Description:
    Our comprehensive courses cover a range of entry-level courses for the healthcare field, including Home Health Aide Training (HHA), Nurse Assistant Training (NAT), Restorative Nursing Assistant (RNA), Continuing Education Units, and CPR / BLS and first aid training.

    Learn More
  • Girls Who Code

    Description:
    Clubs for students to explore coding in a fun & friendly environment.

    Timeframe:
    Summer time program/ and During the school year clubs made on campus

    Learn More Apply
  • Google Cybersecurity Certificate

    Description:
    Prepare for a career as a cybersecurity analyst with a professional cybersecurity certificate from Google. Learn job-ready skills that are in-demand, like how to identify and mitigate common risks, threats, and vulnerabilities — and discover how to effectively utilize AI in cybersecurity.

    Timeframe:
    (8 course series) 6 months at 7hrs a week flexible schedule

    Learn More Apply
  • Sonoma Family Meal

    Description:
    Sonoma Family Meal provides no-cost, bilingual culinary job training for low-income individuals facing barriers to employment. The program is more than just a start; it gives students a solid foundation in the culinary world, as well as essential life skills for cooking healthy meals. We aim for our students to grow into leadership roles, guiding the next generation of chefs and creating a positive work environment. (weekly stipend)

    Timeframe:
    9 week training program(Summer 2025)

    Learn More Apply
  • Programming for Everybody (Getting Started with Python)

    Description:
    What you'll learn
    Install Python and write your first program
    Describe the basics of the Python programming language
    Use variables to store, retrieve and calculate information
    Utilize core programming tools such as functions and loops

    Timeframe:
    7 modules (18hrs) flexible schedule

    Learn More Apply
  • Regenerative Education Alliance REA

    Description:
    Gain hands-on experience in the field of regenerative agriculture and the environment, nonprofit management, event planning/communications, or food justice. Interns will work alongside local farmers and educators and nonprofit professionals, gaining practical on-the-job experience. Designed for 11th and 12th graders who want to improve the planet or gain practical life skills, this internship provides invaluable experiences that enhance college applications and develop professional expertise.

    Timeframe:
    Spring 2025 4hrs per week, weekday afternoons and various weekend hours

    Apply
  • Apprenticeship USA

    Description:
    There are thousands of active apprenticeship programs across the country serving many industries, occupations, and geographic locations. Search open apprenticeship job opportunities from employers across the country and directly apply with the employer of the apprenticeship program. Or search and connect with an active apprenticeship program to learn more about how and when to apply to their apprenticeship program.

    Timeframe:
    Email Directly for details

    Learn More
  • NextGen Trades Academy

    Description:
    The NextGen Trades Academy prepares students who may not have the opportunity to go to college for well-paying work in the construction trades. We not only train them, but help graduates of the program find gainful employment (paid apprenticeships), which at the same time helps enlarge the workforce available to local contractors. 

    Timeframe:
    Feb 22nd -March 15th  Open (Ages 16-24-Marin, Sonoma, Napa Counties)       May 31st -June 21st  Open  (Ages 16-24-Marin, Sonoma, Napa Counties) 

    Learn More Apply
  • Animate Characters

    Description:
    Learn from an animation supervisor who’s worked on several blockbuster films, including Star Wars, Transformers, Hulk, and The Pirates of the Caribbean. In this beginner’s course, you will learn critical skills, software, and how to plan out animation that will ignite your passion for becoming a character animator.

    Timeframe:
    16 Lessons designed to be finished in 12 months or less. 170 minutes of online instruction Cost is $47/month

    Learn More Apply
  • City of Petaluma

    Description:
    The City of Petaluma is currently looking to hire six (6) Part Time Interns to assist in the City Manager's Office, Public Works Department, and the Water Resources & Utilities Department.  This is a part time position and hours worked will vary.  The assignment is expected to last for approximately eight (8) weeks starting in June 2025 and ending in August 2025.  This part time position does not receive any benefits.  

    Timeframe:
    8 weeks in June 2025

    Learn More Apply
  • County of Sonoma (Department of Emergency Management)

    Description:
    If you're looking for a meaningful and impactful internship experience, consider Sonoma County’s Department of Emergency Management. As an intern, you'll have the opportunity to learn about and contribute to critical efforts related to disaster preparedness, communications, response, and recovery. You'll gain hands-on experience working with an exceptionally dedicated and knowledgeable team, and you'll be able to apply your skills and education to real-world challenges. Plus, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing that your work is contributing to the safety and resiliency of your community in the face of emergencies. Apply now for an exciting and rewarding internship opportunity at the Sonoma County’s Department of Emergency Management!  The Department of Emergency Management offers unpaid graduate and post graduate internship opportunities.
     

    Timeframe:
    Rolling through out the year, consider the fact that it will be in Santa Rosa and transportation is need. 

    Learn More Apply

Making the Most of Your Work-Based Learning Experience


General Guidelines

  • Set clear goals and objectives for what you hope to achieve during your experience
  • Take initiative, ask questions, and seek feedback from supervisors and mentors
  • Be proactive in seeking out learning opportunities and taking on new challenges 
  • Stay organized and manage your time effectively to meet deadlines and responsibilities

Professionalism and Work Etiquette

  • Dress appropriately for the workplace, maintain a neat and professional appearance 
  • Arrive on time and be prepared to work diligently throughout your scheduled hours 
  • Communicate respectfully with colleagues, supervisors, and clients at all times 
  • Demonstrate integrity, reliability, and a positive attitude in everything you do
  • Cell Phone usage is only permitted in authorized areas, and it should be turned on “Do Not Disturb” mode or silenced until on a break or otherwise specified by supervisor

Confidentiality

PCS, Student(s), and Business Partner agree to maintain the confidentiality of all proprietary or confidential information disclosed or exchanged between them during the course of this agreement. This includes, but is not limited to, student records, business plans, strategies, processes, and any other information marked as confidential or that would be understood to be confidential by a reasonable person ("Confidential Information"). Both parties agree not to disclose Confidential Information to any third party without the prior written consent of the disclosing party, except as required by law.

Safety in the Workplace 

  • Follow all safety protocols and procedures established by your employer
  • Report any hazards or concerns to your supervisor immediately 
  • Take responsibility for your own safety and the safety of others in the workplace
  • Ask questions if you are unsure about how to safely perform a task or operate equipment 
  • Be aware of updated OSHA standards and procedures
  • Child Labor Laws
  • Child Labor Law No. 101

Building Relationships and Networking 

  •  Take the time to get to know your colleagues and build professional relationships 
  •  Be friendly, approachable, and willing to collaborate with others
  •  Stay in touch with mentors and contacts you meet during work-based learning

Reflection and Goal Setting 

  • Take time weekly to reflect on your experiences and what you have learned
  • Identify areas for growth and set goals for further development
  • Keep a journal or portfolio to document your achievements, challenges, and reflections 
  • Use feedback from supervisors and mentors to guide your goal-setting process

Conclusion and Next Steps 

Students:  whether you are preparing for college, entering the workforce, or pursuing further training, the skills and experiences you have gained will serve you well in your future endeavors.  

Keep exploring, learning, and pursuing your passions with confidence and determination.