§ 547. Work-Based Learning and Training Program

(a) Vermont Work-Based Learning and Training Program. The Department of Labor shall develop the statewide Work-Based Learning and Training Program that serves transitioning secondary and postsecondary students and Vermonters seeking work-based experience as part of a career experience or change and is designed to:

(1) support Vermonters who are graduating from postsecondary education or a secondary CTE program or who are pursuing a career change with a paid on-the-job work experience lasting 12 weeks or fewer;

(2) establish a statewide platform available to all employers to list their internships, returnships, pre-apprenticeships, and registered apprenticeship opportunities and for jobseekers to view and access information about specific opportunities; and

(3) support employers by providing them with assistance in developing and implementing meaningful work-based learning and training opportunities.

(b) Definitions. As used in this section:

(1) “Internship” means a work-based learning experience with an employer where the participant may, but does not necessarily, receive academic credit.

(2) “Returnship” means an on-the-job learning experience for an individual who is returning to the workforce after an extended absence or is seeking a limited-duration on-the-job work experience in a different occupation or occupational setting as part of a career change.

(c) Activities. The Department may use funds appropriated to it for the Program to:

(1) build and administer the Program;

(2) develop an online platform that will connect students and jobseekers with work-based learning and training opportunities within Vermont;

(3) support work-based learning and training opportunities with public and private employers available to prospective workers located in or relocating to Vermont;

(4) promote work-based learning and training as a valuable component of a talent pipeline; and

(5) assist employers in developing meaningful work-based learning and training opportunities.

(d) Data. The Department shall collect the following data:

(1) the total number of participants served;

(2) the number of participants who received wage assistance or other financial assistance as part of this Program and their employment status one year after completion;

(3) the average wage of participants in subdivision (2) of this subsection at the start of the Program and the average wage of participants one year after completion;

(4) the number of work-based learning or training opportunities listed on the platform; and

(5) the number of employers who offered a work-based learning or training opportunity.

(e) State participation. The Department shall engage appropriate State agencies and departments to expand Program opportunities with State government and with entities awarded State contracts.

(f) Reporting. On or before February 15, 2023, the Department shall report Program data to the relevant committees of jurisdiction. (Added 2021, No. 183 (Adj. Sess.), § 11, eff. July 1, 2022.)