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Work-Based Learning SPOTLIGHT | |
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Doing to Learn: Tackling the Mechanic Shortage Through Work-Based Learning
Nothing compares to the depth of hands-on learning for Valley High School Senior Andrew Schmunk. Through-out his high school career, Schmunk worked toward a Career Academy program, an initiative through the local community college designed to bridge the gap between high school academics and trade-focused careers. By his senior year, Schmunk’s commitment saw him enrolled in the intense Automotive Technology pathway at Aims Community College. “Sometimes, sitting in a classroom isn’t the best way to learn,” he says. “There’s only so much you can absorb from a book, and it doesn’t even touch on everything you’ll need to know to be successful.” Schmunk realized this environment would improve his practical skills and skill attainment, as well as help him develop a professional network in the industry he aspires to join. So, he sought out a work-based learning opportunity to complement his formal education. During the 2025-26 school year, Schmunk saw his ambition create a significant opportunity when he gained a position as an intern mechanic for the Weld County School District RE-1 Transportation Department. This role gave Schmunk the ability to move beyond the controlled nature of a school lab and into the high-responsibility task of maintaining and repairing the fleet that ensures student safety on a daily basis. Whether he is performing routine maintenance or more complex repairs, the high-stakes atmosphere of a live shop has continued to grow his technical abilities. | |
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The Work-Based Learning CTE Credential class is for educators who need to obtain a WBL Coordinator CTE Credential. This class is ONLY for secondary educators who are in a Work-Based Learning Coordinator (Specialist) or Teacher position at a Colorado High School. If you have questions about the class or need help deciding if you should register, please reach out to Terra Thiebaut - terra.thiebaut@cccs.edu. Next virtual class is offered: Virtual Class 5/28/2026 In-person and virtual classes will be offered during the 2026-2027 school year. The schedule will be posted in August 2026 on the link below. | |
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Work-Based Learning Community of Practice WBL CoP - Last virtual meeting was April 22, 2026 3:00-4:30PM. Slides from the meeting can be found below. 2026-2027 WBL CoP meeting dates will be announced in Fall 2026. Interested in learning more about Work-Based Learning? Or connecting with other Work-Based Learning Professionals throughout Colorado, sharing best practices, and showcasing innovative resources and ideas? Whether you are new to WBL or a seasoned professional, it is a valuable space to learn, contribute, and build your network. We look forward to meeting with you virtually in the 2026-2027 school year! | |
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Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! | |
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2026 CACTE CAREERTECH SUMMIT | |
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2025-2026 Professional Development Credit - CSU
Colorado CTE Educators will be able to receive Colorado State University credit for taking part in multiple Work-Based Learning or other CTE activities during the school year (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026). Please view the WBL (or other related CTE area) checklist to find out what you can receive credit for. Please only register for the total of credits (1-5) that you are qualified to receive. NOTE: Deadline to submit work is July 10, 2026. This course cannot be dropped and no refunds can be issued.
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Work-Based Learning Job Openings | |
Help us spread the word about open positions. Know of a WBL or Apprenticeship job opening? Email Terra.Thiebaut@cccs.edu to have it posted on the job board. | |
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Climate Jobs & the Skilled Trades Teacher Externship ($2,000 stipend). Ideal profile is a CTE teacher teaching in construction/skilled trades or energy pathways, 9th-12th grade only, in driving distance of Denver/Boulder or districts funds to cover a hotel where all the events will be held. Those that are clean energy/climate tech curious, but not experts (yet!). Learn more here and APPLY HERE - the sooner the better! Upon completion, teachers will receive a $2000 stipend.
Apply for a Teacher Externship (Manufacturing & Entrepreneurship) - Sponsored by the Colorado Department of Labor & Employment (CDLE) and hosted by the Warehouse Business Accelerator (WBA) in Loveland, CO. 48 spots available to teachers in Colorado. No background required, but educators with an interest or expertise in Computer Science & IT, Engineering & Robotics, and/or Agriculture & Sustainability encouraged to apply. $500 stiped available. If you have questions or would like more details, contact Kelly Reeser at kelly.reeser@state.co.us
Industry-Recognized Credentials (IRCs) new IRC Website. The criteria for which the submissions are reviewed can be found here. The submission form is open through August 31.
CACTE Professional Development Grants available to members!
The American Manufacturing Apprenticeship Incentive Fund - The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has launched the American Manufacturing Apprenticeship Incentive Fund, a $35.8 million initiative aimed at expanding high-quality Registered Apprenticeship programs in advanced manufacturing across the country. This cooperative agreement is designed to stimulate nationwide Registered Apprenticeship adoption by providing incentive funding for manufacturers of all sizes to build and expand apprenticeship pipelines. The portal to apply for incentive funding opened on January 28, 2026. Visit DOL’s website for more information about the Incentive Fund.
Tuition-Free Tech Career Training at ActivateWork - If you’re ready for something more—more opportunity, more growth, more purpose—ActivateWork can help you get there. We offer full-time, tuition-free training and professional skills coaching to help you launch a high-demand career in tech. Whether you’re brand new to tech or looking to level up your skills, our programs are designed to get you job-ready and confident from day one. You don’t need a college degree. You don’t need prior experience. You just need motivation, curiosity, and the determination to show up, do the work, and build something better. We’ll give you the tools, coaching, and structure to make it happen. You’re meant for more than just a job. Train for a career with real growth potential. Check out the activatework.org for more information!
Apprenticeship Funding Opportunities
Colorado Apprenticeship Incentive Grant (CAI) recipients announced! | |
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Check out the Work-Based Learning and Apprenticeship Resources: If you have questions, need information, want to share a job posting, or have a WBL spotlight idea please reach out to Terra.Thiebaut@cccs.edu
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