ACTE's National Work-Based Learning Conference 2026

This study examines high school students that take California Community College (CCC) courses that embed work-based learning (WBL) activities. Drawing on transcript data from the full population of California high school students who enrolled in a CCC course with a WBL component, we examine the types of WBL components offered, the subject areas in which they appear, and the demographic patterns of participating students. Our findings speak directly to community college leaders seeking to strengthen and expand opportunities for high school students. By identifying which courses are most likely to integrate WBL effectively, this research can help administrators make strategic decisions about program design.


We also provide a case study on one community college district that has excelled at implementing WBL and participants will learn the institutional support needed for greater WBL adoption.