WBL, Work Based Learning and LTE, Leisure Time Employment up and running once again at Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center. After a long pause during the COVID pandemic students are back to work and making money while they train. If you want to learn valuable skills and save money for transitional needs such as housing or transportation we have a place for you. We have several students working on and off center in various locations. SGA President, James Allen said, “I can’t wait to start my job at McDonalds so I can save enough money for an apartment.” Perkins students that are at least 40% complete with their trade and hold a Silver, Gold or Platinum card are eligible to participate. WBL Coordinator, Annie Collins said, “Working while attending classes is a great way to build employability skills that will last a lifetime.” There are many ways students can earn WBL hours and are divided into the following categories:  field trips, job shadowing, CTST projects, service learning / special projects, center-based enterprises, cooperative education and internships.

            Field trips are a great way for students to explore and observe different businesses and industries. Job shadowing allows students to see how their training connects to the workplace. CTST projects is another way our students can use the skills they learn in class and apply those skills to work with projects on center. Service learning / special projects lets students leave center and participate in local events and community activities. Center-based enterprises is another way to earn WBL hours and practice CSS, Career Success Standards. Students earn credit by producing goods or services. Cooperative education gives students the opportunity to acquire specific skills and work on job specific assignments that focuses on their career goals. The last WBL category is internships. This is similar to cooperative education but the emphasis is on practicing and applying the skills they have learned. Students are treated as an actual employee and in most cases an internship position will lead to permanent employment.