MT Work-Based Learning Collaborative

Join us to learn, share, and strengthen your approach to hiring and supporting youth. Boost your seasonal hiring success, discover the value of work-based learning, connect with a growing network, and gain practical strategies to support and retain the younger workforce.

The next Lunch n' Learn Zoom workshop is April 14th at noon.

Contact Gabe Rowley at [email protected] or visit qrco.de/bgaV6f to register.

Wondering how insurance for high school workers is covered in Montana?

We have a few good resources under the Educators section of our website: wblmt.org

Interviewing a high school intern is a unique experience — it’s less about resumes and more about potential, curiosity, and attitude.

Here are a few tips to make the process meaningful for both sides:

✅ Set a comfortable tone. Start with small talk to ease nerves and help them feel at ease.
✅ Explain the process. Outline what the interview will cover so they know what to expect.
✅ Focus on potential and motivation. Ask what excites them about the opportunity and what they hope to learn.
✅ Look for soft skills. Communication, enthusiasm, and reliability often matter more than experience.
✅ Ask situational questions. Simple scenarios can reveal how they think and collaborate.
✅ Keep it educational. Offer feedback and make the interview a learning moment.
✅ Evaluate fit and support. Ensure your environment can provide mentorship and structure.
✅ End on a positive note. Thank them and encourage continued exploration.

High school internships can be incredibly rewarding — not just for the student, but for the team that helps them grow. Investing time in thoughtful interviews builds confidence, skills, and future talent.

📣 Montana Employers 🚨

We want to learn about your recent experience recruiting, retaining talent, and your interest in work-based learning.

Please take this survey...it should only take about 20 minutes. 🙂

Starting a plumbing apprenticeship offers a practical path to a rewarding career. This training blends on-the-job experience with classroom learning, teaching essential skills in pipe work and repair. As an apprentice, you'll learn from experienced plumbers, mastering blueprints, local codes, and safety regulations.

https://willplumb.com/6-lessons-i-learned-as-a-plumbing-apprentice/

6 Lessons I Learned as a Plumbing Apprentice - Williams Plumbing Plumbing: it’s an amazing career. But for an apprentice just starting out in this trade, there’s a lot to learn. It’s easy to make mistakes. As a journeyman plumber with 17 years in the trade, I’ve definitely taken my lumps. Don’t worry: if you’re looking to carve out a plumbing career, ...

Wondering who is responsible for the student's workers' compensation insurance? This form can serve as the basis for that agreement between the employer and school.
https://wblmt.org/application/files/1317/2477/6174/MSGIA-School-to-Work-WC-election-form-with-employer.pdf

Cheers! Enjoy St. Patrick's Day with happiness and good fortune. 🍀

Work-based learning has many benefits for employers and for learners. One of the biggest benefits for employers is that internships help build the workforce pipeline.

https://www.britebound.org/insights/youth-work-based-learning-trends-benefits-and-opportunities-for-students-and-employers

Youth Work-Based Learning: Trends, Benefits, and Opportunities for Students and Employers - Britebound BriteBound