Virginia Works Launches New Statewide Work-Based Learning Catalog to Strengthen Talent Pipelines Across the Commonwealth

Richmond, Va. — Virginia Works today announced the launch of the Work‑Based Learning Catalog, a comprehensive statewide resource designed to help employers identify, understand, and implement high‑quality work‑based learning models that build skills, develop talent, and support long‑term workforce growth. The catalog equips employers with clear definitions, model descriptions, implementation guidance, and Virginia‑specific resources for more than 18 work‑based learning options.

Developed in collaboration with the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the catalog includes detailed profiles for a wide range of work‑based learning models—including internships, job shadows, pre‑apprenticeships, micro‑internships, cooperative education, clinical placements, fellowships, on‑the‑job training, transitional jobs, and Registered Apprenticeship, alongside examples, business use cases, success indicators, and common pitfalls

The catalog provides a unified framework that organizes work‑based learning experiences into four progressive stages and helps businesses identify the models that best align with their talent needs and workforce strategies. Employers will also find guidance related to wage considerations, supervision, documentation, youth employment requirements, insurance and liability, and site readiness.

“Employers are asking for clear, accessible information about how work-based learning fits into their talent strategy,” said Megan Healy, Chief of Talent and Workforce Strategy at the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. “This catalog offers exactly that—simple, actionable guidance that helps businesses design high-quality learning opportunities while strengthening partnerships with schools, colleges, and workforce organizations.”

“Work‑based learning is one of Virginia’s most powerful tools for preparing people for in‑demand careers,” said Nicole Overley, Commissioner of Virginia Works. “This new resource gives employers practical guidance to design meaningful learning experiences that strengthen retention, expand access to skills, and support workforce readiness across all sectors.”

The Work‑Based Learning Catalog reflects Virginia’s commitment to building a connected, data‑informed workforce system that benefits job seekers, employers, and communities.

The development of this resource was supported through collaboration with partners across the Commonwealth, including the State Council for Higher Education in Virginia, the Virginia Community College System, the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services, the Virginia Department of Education, the Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired, the Virginia Department of Corrections, the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, the Virginia Department of Social Services, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, and the Virginia Office of Education Economics.

Learn more about Virginia Works and download the FREE Work-Based Learning Catalog: https://virginiaworks.gov/im-an-employer/develop.

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Richmond is an independent city in the Richmond region.