Unlocking NextGen Talent: Employers Driving Work-Based Learning and Career Navigation
Join World Business Chicago for our second installment of Leading The Way 2026 on how work‑based learning (WBL) can strengthen your talent pipeline, deepen workforce diversity, and meet evolving business needs while delivering real ROI.
We are proud to have the support of our esteemed partners: The Chicago Mayor's Office, Urban Alliance, Jobs for the Future (JFF), Corporate Coalition, Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, Cara Collective, and Origami Works who already do great work convening employers and we’re looking forward to working more closely together.
This session will introduce employers to the full work‑based learning continuum, from early career awareness experiences to internships, micro‑internships, and career‑connected employment. You’ll hear directly from national and Chicago‑based leaders who are successfully partnering with employers to provide high‑impact WBL opportunities at scale.
Whether you are a large employer, a mid‑sized firm, or a small business, this event will demonstrate practical, flexible ways to participate—even with limited time or resources—and show what “good” work‑based learning looks like in action.
What You’ll Learn
How work‑based learning supports business outcomes: productivity, talent pipeline development, reduced hiring costs, and long‑term retention
Where different WBL models fit—high school internships, college‑level work‑based learning, and micro‑internships—and which models may be right for your organization
Why employer engagement is critical for career navigation, skill development, and long‑term economic mobility
Evidence‑based insights on how WBL improves student confidence, career decision‑making, and workforce readiness
Ways to overcome common barriers, including capacity, supervision time, and liability concerns
Featured Perspectives
Employers will hear from leaders across the WBL ecosystem, including:
Urban Alliance – High‑school internships and employer ROI
City Colleges of Chicago – College student work‑based learning and workforce alignment
LinkedIn – Employer Partner.
Jobs for the Future (JFF) – Research and evidence connecting WBL to career navigation and economic mobility
What You’ll Take Away
A simple decision guide to help you identify the right WBL model for your organization
Practical examples, frameworks, and templates to get started or scale up
Clear next steps to pilot or expand work‑based learning opportunities for Fall 2025–26
Connections to partners and peers committed to strengthening Chicago’s talent pipeline
Please reach out to Briana Lilly ([email protected]) with any questions or concerns.
We can't wait to see you there!