According to the Education Development Center, “Workforce development refers to programs and policies that promote the mastery of new job-related knowledge and skills, access to employment opportunities, and real jobs.” Workforce development programs prepare individuals for life as a student and working in the real world. Sometimes, they provide graduates with the chance to make a real impact within their community or the world at large.
There is a real advantage for businesses as well. Workforce development programs fuel industries with skilled employees that already have some experience within the field. Many of these programs are designed and created from partnerships with colleges and business leadership teams.
Ultimately though, these programs equip participants with real takeaways:
• Knowledge and skills to perform tasks for specific jobs.
• Experience working on a team with shared goals and milestones.
• Connections with real employees that you’ll be able to utilize for future job opportunities or networking.
In addition to finding scholarships, internships, and part-time jobs on Fastweb, you can find several of these workforce development programs. Check out some of the amazing opportunities we feature below.
Student Trainee Program – Technology and Manufacturing
The Student Trainee Program is open to high school juniors and seniors as well as full-time community college freshmen and sophomores. Trainees will have the opportunity to gain practical, challenging, and meaningful on-the-job work experience, while working for a global leader in innovation, technology, and manufacturing.Learn more about the Student Trainee Program.i.c. stars Program – Professional Development and Mentoring
The i.c. stars Program is open to students who are pursuing an Associate's Degree. The program begins with a 16-week, project-based internship and continues with a 20-month residency program combining professional development, mentoring, and continuing access to wrap around support. Learn more about the i.c. stars Program.Chicagoland Regional College Program – Logistics and Management
The Chicagoland Regional College Program is open to students who are at least 17 years of age and attending, or planning to attend, any of the seven partner colleges or ten affiliate institutions. Participants will receive an annual salary as well as employee tuition assistance. Learn more about the Chicagoland Regional College Program.Café Momentum Internship – Real-World Skills and Restaurant Management
The Café Momentum Internship is available to students between the ages of 15 and 19 who have been incarcerated or on probation within the last twelve months. Interns will work their way through all areas of Café Momentum, learning legal employment, social skills, and life skills. Learn more about the Café Momentum Internship.Guided Pathway Support Program – Education and Leadership
The Guided Pathway Support Program is open to African American high school juniors and seniors. This free program teaches students how to prepare for, apply to, pay for, persist in, and graduate from college. Applications are accepted year-round. Learn more about the Guided Pathway Support Program.Posse Scholars Program
The Posse Scholars Program is open to high school seniors who demonstrate academic potential and leadership in their school, community, or family. Posse Scholars receive leadership scholarships to attend one of 44 Posse partner colleges and universities. Nomination by a high school or community- based organization is required. Learn more about the Posse Scholars Program.One Million Degrees Scholarship Program
The One Million Degrees Scholarship Program is open to full-time students who are pursuing an Associate's Degree or advanced certificate. You must be planning to enroll at an OMD partner community college, be Pell or Star eligible, and have a minimum 2.0 GPA to be eligible for this award. Learn more about the One Million Degrees Scholarship Program.Teach for America – Education
The Teach For America program is open to college juniors, seniors, and recent graduates. Once accepted into the program, you must commit to teaching for at least two years in a low-income community served by the organization. Learn more about Teach for America.Morehead-Cain Scholarship
The Morehead-Cain Scholarship is available to high achieving high school seniors who are applying to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. You must demonstrate leadership, high character, and a commitment to an active lifestyle to be considered for this award. Learn more about the Morehead-Cain Scholarship.
