Work-Based Learning Can Advance Equity and Opportunity for America’s Young People

This report envisions high-quality work-based learning (WBL) as a lever to advance equity and economic opportunity for young people. It identifies and explores the implications of three key elements of quality WBL programs, particularly those serving high school students and out-of-school youth. These elements are exposure to positive and trusting relationships with caring adults, opportunities to build social capital, and access to work environments that offer hands-on learning. The report draws on interviews with youth participants and employers who have offered these training opportunities and identifies the roles that states can play in supporting work-based learning.