Congratulations to OVHS student, Austin Purdy, on his official signing to complete his paid UpSkill internship with World Arts, Inc.
UpSkill offers students the chance to discover career interests and pathways they cannot learn in the classroom and employers the opportunity to grow their workforce. Serving as the intermediary organization, ROI is working with high schools, employers, and higher education partners to launch this program in the Indiana Uplands.
UpSkill provides a 2-3 year opportunity for both the student and the employer. Participating students gain paid employment with on-the-job and related classroom instruction. ROI provides support with student applications, interviews, placement, trainings, and ongoing guidance.
How does it work?
Students are identified in their sophomore year in high school and participate in interviews. After being selected by employers, they begin their journey in their junior year with a 10-12 hour a week placement. In their senior year, students build up to 15-20 hours per week, which can lead to full or part-time employment, advanced training, or college coursework the third year.
ROI conducted its second signing day and orientation for students and employers participating in our pilot high school work and learn program.
Across the #IndianaUplands, work-based learning opportunities help students develop important career and life skills as they bring enthusiasm and innovation to our work.