The Work-Based Learning Center (WBLC) at College of Western Idaho (CWI) is redefining student success by connecting classroom learning and real-world experience. Through a comprehensive suite of services, the WBLC empowers students to explore careers, gain hands-on experience, and prepare for the workforce with confidence.
A Hub for Career Readiness
The WBLC offers a wide range of services designed to help students transition from education to employment and assist faculty with positive placement for their programs. The services include:
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Career Exploration: Helping students identify their interests, values, and skills through tools like the Interest Profiler and Career Clusters Survey.
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Job Shadowing: Providing opportunities to observe professionals and gain the information necessary to help students make the right decisions for themselves.
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Internships: Gives the opportunity for students to work side by side with professionals in the industry of choice and either earn credit, experience, or both.
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Work Study & Employment: Assist students in finding part-time jobs and work-study positions that align with their academic and career goals.
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Resume & Cover Letter Support: Offering guidance on crafting targeted resumes and cover letters to increase students’ chances of landing careers that meet their goals.
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Mock Interviews and Interview Prep: Prepare students with practice interviews, sample questions, and professional dress tips to boost confidence and performance.
Real Support. Real Results.
The WBLC helps students sharpen their resumes, build networks, and gain experience that leads to careers. For these two students, it made all the difference.
"Kaden has been such an incredible support throughout my time at CWI. From the very beginning, he supported me every step of the way — helping me revise and strengthen my resume, guiding me through the internship process, and even offering to do a mock interview to help me feel more confident. I’m especially grateful for how consistently he’s checked in and helped however he could to make sure things came together. His support has truly made a difference in my experience, and I appreciate all he’s done to help me grow professionally." — Daisy Gallegos
“ My experience with the Work-Based Learning Center was fantastic! I was provided with guidance on enhancing my resume, interview pointers, and networking opportunities. They even printed off some resumes for me! On top of it all, through the WBLC I was able to secure a position at St. Luke’s!! I highly recommend students to take advantage of this valuable resource. Whether you’re an experienced professional or an eager student ready to enter the field, it’s always a good idea to pay a visit to the staff at WBLC who’ve got your back! I truly appreciate the help you guys offer!” — Ivan Gonzales
Tools for Success
Students are encouraged to use Handshake, the top-rated tool for helping college students find jobs. The WBLC also promotes resume optimization tools helping students tailor their resumes to specific roles.
Support Every Step of the Way
The WBLC team, led by Executive Director John Russ and a team of dedicated professionals, is committed to supporting students throughout their entire academic journey. Whether a student is unsure of their career path or ready to apply for career opportunities, the WBLC offers personalized guidance and resources.
Partner with WBLC Today
Following the spirit of its motto, “Exposure is the birthplace of opportunity,” the WBLC works with various faculty and staff to coordinate industry-specific visits, guest speakers, and schedule one-on-one sessions to support students’ career development.
Jody Kirchgessner, the senior talent sourcer at JLL (Jones Lang LaSalle IP, Inc.), expressed their enthusiasm for CWI students, saying,
“Thank you for sharing your graduates with us. Your partnership sets the gold standard for tech school relationships all across the country – we talk about you a lot!” — Jody Kirchgessner
