Implementing Successful Internships

Successful Work-Based Learning Experiences

The National Collaborative for Workforce and Disability (NCWD) has developed guiding principles to help your business implement a successful internship program or other work-based learning experience.

Work individually with interns and when possible, with the referring school or organization to set mutually agreed-upon goals for learning and skill development. An individualized learning plan should support and complement the internship experience and contain a summary of the goals, expectations, and logistics of the experience.

• Expect the best and challenge all interns to perform well. Provide necessary orientation and training and assess performance regularly. Plan regular meetings with the intern to provide constructive and honest feedback and guidance.
• Act as a mentor. Be a compassionate source of advice, support and guidance.
• Be a role model. Be an example of positive and appropriate workplace behavior.
• Teach interns the connection between school, work, and their future goals. Offer suggestions about how to increase his or her chances for future career success.

An individualized learning plan should support and complement the internship experience and contain a summary of the goals, expectations, and logistics of the experience.

For more information

More information is available on the CWD website

Examples of successful work-based learning experiences

Microsoft Corporation
Since 2000, Microsoft Corporation has employed hundreds of youth with disabilities, and has successfully included them in its internship and related programs. Microsoft ensures that its management staff is prepared to hire students with disabilities by offering brief introductory meetings and trainings on disability.

Generac Portable Products
Generac Portable Products Corporation is a manufacturing company in Jefferson, Wisconsin that offers young people the chance to participate in work-based learning experiences. For many years, its apprentices have included youth with learning and behavioral disabilities. Many graduates are offered full-time positions at Generac upon completion of the program.

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Provident Bank
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, along with Provident Bank and another local hospital, offers an internship program for high school seniors with disabilities with an interest in health care or banking. During the first half of the school year, students spend the entire school day at their assigned organization and rotate through three to four work site experiences. During the second half of the school year, students receive an individualized placement, along with necessary accommodations and assistance with the intention of creating a long-term position for the individual.