UNITE-LA, with support from the Haas Jr. Foundation, conducted a study to evaluate the implementation of the Learning-Aligned Employment Program (LAEP) in the Los Angeles area, set for release in early 2025. While the program was eliminated from the 2024 budget, this important research will be vital to informing the expansion of work-based learning (WBL) opportunities for college students. The study identifies strategies for expanding WBL opportunities across participating L.A. higher education institutions, synthesizing findings from four months of interviews with local colleges, universities and employers to assess the program’s achievements, challenges and opportunities for growth.
Because LAEP provided a foundational framework for integrating career-aligned experiences into students’ educational journeys, the report recommends a framework for scaling successful LAEP strategies to foster student-employer connections across different contexts.
Recommendations are themed around enhancing off-campus employer partnerships and awareness of workforce programs; aligning academic programs with workforce needs; and refining student recruitment efforts to sustain LAEP’s vision and improve student career preparedness.
Full recommendations, accompanied by a series of technical assistance opportunities to support campuses and their partners implement these recommendations, is scheduled for release in 2025.
For information on our continued efforts, please reach out to Matthew Moor, Manager of Postsecondary Systems, at [email protected].
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