Express WBL Partnership
Work-Based Learning (WBL) bridges the gap between classroom learning and hands-on career experience — giving students the chance to apply their skills, gain confidence, and prepare for the jobs of tomorrow.
When employers open their doors to host paid student internships, they’re not just helping students — they’re investing in their own future workforce.
We know concerns about liability, insurance, or program logistics can hold some businesses back. That’s where Express Employment Professionals comes in!
Express removes the barriers — handling the details so employers, students, and schools can focus on what matters most: developing skilled, work-ready Oklahomans.
Who Can Participate
Express WBL is open to students and employers in all 29 technology center districts, and in all high schools with CareerTech programs.
Why Participate?
- Express Employment Professionals serves as the official employer of the WBL student and provides the required workers’ compensation insurance and liability coverage.
- All onboarding and offboarding processes are managed by Express Employment Professionals, including:
- • I-9, W-2, and FICA documentation
- • Drug testing (if required)
- • Termination and unemployment procedures
- Students have the opportunity to gain experience with multiple employers and even explore different industries during their WBL placements.
- If a placement is not a good fit, the student can be easily reassigned to another WBL opportunity — without requiring a formal termination.
- Both the school and Express Employment Professionals share a vested interest in the success of each WBL student. Together, their combined resources create a higher level of career development and workforce readiness.
Process
- School determines student readiness
- The student has developed the foundational technical skills needed for success.
- The student is prepared for the job search process, including interview skills and a current résumé.
- Student, school, or employer notifies the local Express Employment Professionals office about their interest in participating.
- Student interviews with employers
- Agreement and planning process begins
- The student/guardian, school and employer complete a Work-Based Learning Agreement.
- Learning objectives and evaluation methods are clearly identified.
- Work-based learning experience begins
