The 2026 second-semester internship application portal is NOW OPEN! This opportunity to gain experience, make connections, and get ahead of the curve is open to all 11th and 12th grade students. Internships are 40 hours and students can earn dual credit. Completed applications are due by Oct. 31 at 3 p.m. Learn More.

Kirkwood’s Workplace Learning Connection Recognized as a National Leader Amid Surge in Iowa Work-Based Learning

Work-based learning is on the rise in Iowa, and Kirkwood Community College’s Workplace Learning Connection (WLC) is at the forefront of the movement. Recently, WLC was named one of the top 10 finalists in the U.S. Department of Education’s Career Z Challenge, a national competition recognizing innovative ecosystems that connect high school students to high-quality career exploration experiences.

This recognition comes as new statewide data shows that 45% of Iowa high school seniors in the class of 2025 completed at least one work-based learning experience, up nearly 20 percentage points from just two years ago. That represents a 76% increase in opportunities that help students develop durable skills, earn credentials, and prepare for in-demand careers.

Workplace Learning Connection is helping drive that growth. Serving 32 public school districts as well as private and charter schools across Eastern Iowa, WLC offers thousands of students hands-on opportunities through job shadows, internships, career fairs, and classroom-based exploration. In alignment with new state guidelines, WLC has increased student participation by nearly 20% and expanded access to industry-recognized credentials and concurrent enrollment through Kirkwood’s K-12 Partnerships team.

The results are powerful: 89% of students report their internships made them more aware of local career opportunities, 92% were positively influenced to pursue a career in their internship field, 62% said they are more likely to live and work in Iowa, and 45% were offered employment after their experience.

As a Career Z Challenge finalist, WLC received tailored technical assistance to accelerate the expansion and sustainability of its work-based learning ecosystem. WLC received $186,000 to further strengthen its leadership in preparing students for the workforce of tomorrow.

From Habitat Home Recipient to Habitat Intern: Omnia’s Story

For West High School senior Omnia Ali, interning with Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity was more than just a learning experience — it was a full-circle moment.

“My internship experience was amazing. I got to network and build great relationships,” Omnia says. “From attending a board meeting to making fundraising calls, and even visiting a newly built Habitat home, the experience offered unique opportunities to connect with people and make a difference. I’ve also gained communication and collaboration skills. I had to talk to a lot of people at events and work with different people on the team to get things done. These are crucial skills that I’ll use in the future.”

The impact of her internship stretched far beyond skill building. Omnia’s host, Tami Bonnett, left a lasting impression: “She inspired me. I got to see firsthand how service can impact the community as well as how fulfilling it is to do something for other people.”

This experience also sparked new career interests. “This internship made me consider real estate development work. It showed me how rewarding working in housing can be. Sometimes the best work doesn’t feel like work at all — it’s helping humanity.”

What made the experience even more meaningful was the personal connection. “My parents immigrated to the United States from Sudan and they were able to get a Habitat house in Indiana. That was the first home I knew, so Habitat has always been special to me. Being able to intern and see behind the scenes of what they are able to do for families was so exciting. It felt a little like paying it forward.”

Looking back, Omnia encourages classmates to take advantage of internship opportunities through Workplace Learning Connection. “Doing an internship helps you decide whether the job is for you. Not doing one could make you miss out on a pathway that’s meant for you — but you’ll never know unless you put yourself out there and experience it.”

Discovering Passion and Possibility Through an RPM Revival Internship

Over the summer, Tipton High School student Ali Harper interned with RPM Revival and gained a lot of insight and experience through hands-on work. Ali shares her experience below.

Tell us about your internship. What did you learn? What are some of the things you were able to do?

Given that my internship was in the mechanical field, the majority of what I did was hands-on work, which I enjoyed. I worked with amazing people who showed me different steps on how to wire different parts of a car or a truck. I worked under a semi putting screws back in, and at one point, I took apart a whole truck by myself.

What impact did your internship experience have on you?

My internship impacted me on a lot of levels. I met many amazing people. Randy, who was my boss, is a great, funny guy; anyone would love to have a boss like him. The experience also boosted my confidence because I know I want to work in a male-dominated field, and this first experience was so positive. I felt completely comfortable.

Did your experience influence your studies or future college and career plans?

I’ve always wanted to be a welder, and working at this internship, I found something I was good at. I learned they have a welder for welding cars, which is another path I could consider, merging both areas of interest. I even received a scholarship to come back and work for RPM after college!

What was your favorite part of your internship experience?

It is hard to pick just one thing, but if I had to, it would be when I got to take apart a truck all by myself. They trusted me, and I pretty much repaired that whole truck.

What skills did your internship help you develop?

I learned how to stay motivated and use critical thinking skills when something didn't work. I also recognized the importance of teamwork in a mechanic shop.

Why should your classmates do an internship while in high school? What are they missing out on if they don’t?

I recommend doing a job shadowing or an internship. At first, I didn't think it was important, but I was completely wrong. Career exploration in high school helps you decide what you want to do, what you like, and helps you not waste money doing something you hate.