Apply now for a first semester 2026 internship!
This opportunity to gain experience, earn dual credit, make connections, and get ahead of the curve is open to students currently in grades 10-11. Applications are due by April 10 at 3 p.m.
Workplace Learning Connection
Explore Careers, Prepare For Your Future
Workplace Learning Connection (WLC) provides career exploration opportunities for middle school and high school students interested in exploring career options. From speaker events and career fairs, to job shadow and internship opportunities (and so much more!), WLC is here to support the next step in your adventure.
Workplace Learning Connection helps educators develop career preparation and exploration programs that truly make an impact, while helping businesses connect with the workforce of tomorrow.
Job Shadowing
Job shadowing is a great way to explore careers and gain useful information about what it takes to succeed in different fields.
Internships
There’s no better way to learn skills related to your future career and the workplace in general.
Virtual Career Speakers
Check out our library of professionals talking about their industries and career paths in these 15-20 minute videos.
Educator Resources
We can help you develop career preparation and exploration programs that really make an impact!
Student Resources
Check out our information for high school students interested in exploring career options and opportunities.
Parent Resources
Help your child navigate this process and discover their dream career before starting college.
Partners & Volunteers
With your support, students learn which courses, skill sets and educational paths they need to enter a specific career.
What Do Students Say?
Hear what local students are saying about their job shadow and internship opportunities.
What Do Businesses Say?
Hear what area business professionals say about the value of engaging with Workplace Learning Connection. Interested in learning more? Visit our Partners and Volunteers page.
Kirkwood Community College’s Workplace Learning Connection (WLC) has been recognized as one of the top 10 work-based learning organizations in the nation by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). The honor was part of the DOE's Career Z Challenge, a multi-stage national competition designed to grow and enhance work-based learning (WBL) opportunities for middle and high school students.
To WLC Director Kristine Bullock, being named a top 10 program underscores Kirkwood's ongoing commitment to preparing students for success beyond the classroom and fostering strong community and economic development across the region.
“This honor reflects the incredible dedication of our team and our partners across Eastern Iowa,” said Bullock. “Every day, we have the privilege of helping young people discover what’s possible for their futures. Our goal is to ensure that students leave high school with both inspiration and direction–and to strengthen the region’s workforce in the process.”
Serving 32 public school districts, as well as private and charter schools across Eastern Iowa, WLC facilitates thousands of student experiences each year. Through job shadows, internships, career fairs, classroom visits, and speaker events, the organization provides students with meaningful opportunities to explore career paths and connect with local employers.
In alignment with new state guidelines, WLC has expanded access to industry-recognized credentials and concurrent enrollment through Kirkwood’s K–12 Partnerships team, increasing student participation by nearly 20%. The outcomes show that 89% of students report greater awareness of local career opportunities, 92% are positively influenced to pursue a related career field and 62% say they’re more likely to live and work in Iowa after graduation.
As part of its recognition, WLC received $186,000 in funding to enhance its efforts in creating sustainable, student-centered work-based learning ecosystems.
WLC coordinators work with local schools and businesses to provide appropriate work-based learning support to students and educators. Please be aware changes in weather, public health policy and host availability can impact work-based learning activities or programs, potentially causing them to be cancelled, rescheduled or transitioned to a virtual format. Communication will always be sent accordingly to keep students and parents aware of any changes.
Workplace Learning Connection
Linn County Regional Center
1770 Boyson Road, Hiawatha, Iowa 52233
319-398-1040