Alexandria launches new ‘work-based learning’ program

The City of Alexandria is launching a new program to connect businesses with locals looking for work experience.

Alexandria’s Workforce Development Center (WDC) is hosting a “Work-based learning” program that will connect pre-screened candidates looking for job experience with various businesses around Alexandria. The program is scheduled to start on Monday, Jan. 3.

“Companies can save time and money by investing in local talent and identifying and recruiting future employees,” the WDC said in a press release. “Companies benefit from increased brand awareness and their status as locally preferred employers thanks to the relationships they develop with local talent and the Alexandria community. Our Workforce Development staff assist by prescreening qualified candidates, case management, and matching employers with local talent who are interested and have related technical and soft skills, and serving as the primary point of contact at our Workforce Development Center.”

Work-based learning programs are typically apprenticeships or internships, and the WDC said it’s a way of applying academic and technical skills to increase employability.

“It also serves as an opportunity for employers to be able to hire talent after the WBL experience,” the WDC said. “By matching talent with workplace mentors and positive employment through WBL, participants receive a positive and rich work experience.”

Businesses can apply to the program online, and job-seekers can apply to the WDC here.