Career Continuum
The Work-Based Learning Network Career Continuum supports career-related programs of study by guiding students through the various stages of engagement in the classroom, workplace, or community.
Youth will have achieved the following competencies indicating work-readiness:
- Academic Technology / Digital Literacy
- Interpersonal Skills
- Communication
- Critical Thinking / Problem Solving
- General Professional
- Self-Management
- Adaptability / Continuous Learning
- Employment Management
- Financial Literacy
- Integrity / Ethical Decision-Making
Guidance Counselors / Career Counselors / Youth Development Specialists / Support Services
1. Early: Career Awareness and Exploration
Objectives:
- Build Career Awareness
- Workplace Tours
- Guest Speakers
- Career Fairs
- Field Trips
Activities:
- Inform Career Decisions
- Job Shadowing
- Career Research
- Informational Interviews
- Career Interest Assessment
- Mentoring
2. Intermediate: Career Preparation
Objectives:
Supports career readiness and includes extended direct interaction with professionals from industry and the community.
Activities:
- Clinical Experiences
- Credit-for-Work-Experiences
- Project-Based Learning
- Service-Learning
3. Advanced: Learning at Work
Objectives:
Occurs at a work site and prepares individuals for employment.
Activities:
- Pre-Apprenticeship
- Internship
- Credential-Based Training
- Summer Employment
4. Career Entry
Objectives:
Individual prepared for the future of work and career advancement.
Activities:
- Apprenticeship
- Employee
- On-the-Job Training
5. End Outcome: Workplace Success
Objectives:
Skilled talent for business and meaningful careers for students and job seekers.
Key Milestones:
- Secondary Attendance
- Secondary Academic Achievement
- Secondary Credential Attainment
- Post-Secondary Connection
- Post-Secondary Completion
- Sustainable Employment / Living Wage
- Wealth / Asset Development