Work-Based Learning Is Iowa’s Workforce Advantage

Iowa’s economic future will not be determined by chance. It will be shaped by the decisions we make today about how we prepare young people for work—and how deeply businesses choose to engage in that preparation.

For too long, education and workforce development have been treated as separate systems. In reality, they are one continuous pipeline. At the center of that pipeline is Work-Based Learning (WBL)—a strategy that connects classroom learning to real-world experience while helping employers develop their future workforce.

The need for stronger talent pipelines is growing. Baby Boomers are retiring in record numbers, while Generation Z remains underrepresented in critical sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and the skilled trades. At the same time, automation and artificial intelligence are transforming how work gets done.

But research consistently shows that technology alone does not drive performance—human skills do.

High-performing teams thrive not because they use the most advanced tools, but because they build cultures of trust, collaboration, and apprenticeship. These human skills—communication, adaptability, accountability, and teamwork—are what make organizations successful.

Work-Based Learning helps students build those skills before they enter the workforce.

Businesses, educators and communities must work togethe to strengthen Iowa's workforce pipeline.  ABI is proud to partner with iJAG (Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates) and Kuder through our iJAG Connect program. We invite businesses to speak to a classroom, host a job shadow, offer an internship, or mentor a student. When employers engage in work-based learning, they help shape the talent they need—and strengthen Iowa’s future.  Learn more:  Get Involved | Iowa Association of Business and Industry