Workplace Learning Connection

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Workplace Learning Connection Work. Learn. Connect ...Job Shadows. Internships. Career Events. For more information, visit our web site at www.workplace-learning.org

Workplace Learning Connection partners with area schools and local businesses to coordinate career exploration activities for students. Through job shadows, internships and career events, we are developing our future workforce by connecting today's students to tomorrow's careers. Sign-up for our monthly e-newsletter to stay up-to-date on upcoming opportunities: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/CM84cmi

[Student Editorial] A Summer of Learning, Advocacy, and GrowthMy name is Ava Parsons, I am a senior at Linn-Mar High Sch...
10/08/2026

[Student Editorial] A Summer of Learning, Advocacy, and Growth

My name is Ava Parsons, I am a senior at Linn-Mar High School. This summer I did a WLC internship at NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Linn County. NAMI is an organization that works to support people and families living with mental health conditions through advocacy and education. As part of my internship, I got to participate in youth workshops, hand out resources at Pride Fest, and be interviewed on KCRG!

I am interested in psychology and mental health careers because the people who need support the most are the ones that the systems have historically failed. Whether that is long waitlists to get help, the cost, or the stigma surrounding seeking help, there is a lack of access for so many people. I want to make a difference and be part of the change to prioritize mental health in this country. I was already set on a degree in psychology, and this experience has only solidified my decision. I cannot wait to pursue further education and enter this field.

My internship helped me explore future careers by introducing me to advocacy and what a typical day looks like for a career that focuses on ending the stigma. This internship has also introduced me to Crush Recovery, which focuses on substance abuse, since I am currently exploring the possibility of going into addiction counseling. The experience will also be a great thing to put on my future resumes and applications, showing that I already have had a little experience in the field.

After I graduate this spring, I plan to go to Kirkwood for a year to finish my Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree in psychology and then transfer to the University of Iowa to get my bachelor's and master's degrees.

Apply for a second-semester internship today!

-Mar Community Schools

Our first career speaker day of the school year was a success!Thank you to our volunteers for sharing their time: KZIA, ...
10/07/2026

Our first career speaker day of the school year was a success!

Thank you to our volunteers for sharing their time: KZIA, Mercy Health, Tech Electronics, Kirkwood Business/IT program, New Bo Co, Skogman Realty, Cedar's Edge Evergreen, Mercy Medical, Info Solutions, and Kirkwood's MLT program.

Last school year WLC provided 35,357 career exploration experiences to area students! 🤯
10/07/2026

Last school year WLC provided 35,357 career exploration experiences to area students! 🤯

[Student Editorial] Brianna Gahring: Turning High School Opportunities into a Head StartDuring the summer of 2025, I had...
10/05/2026

[Student Editorial] Brianna Gahring: Turning High School Opportunities into a Head Start

During the summer of 2025, I had the opportunity through Workplace Learning Connection (WLC) to intern at the Vinton Police Department as a public safety intern. During this internship, I learned just how critical it is to follow procedures, especially in law enforcement. I was also able to assist in alcohol compliance checks, ensuring that local businesses were following state regulations, including making sure that they were not selling to underage individuals. I also had the opportunity to observe traffic stops, warrant pickups, and community calls regarding various issues. One call involved bank account fraud that required us to contact the FBI. These experiences gave me a better understanding of the many responsibilities involved in law enforcement, even in a small community.

This past summer, I was placed at an internship with Virginia Gay Hospital as an information systems administrator intern. During this internship, I developed a deeper understanding of workflow disruptions and how critical every problem is, even if it seems minor. My favorite part was networking with hospital staff and learning how all departments must work together to keep the hospital and clinics running smoothly.

Both WLC internships were interesting and eye-opening. My career goal is to be a digital forensics analyst. My experiences showed me that no matter what career you choose, there are always new things to learn and understand. Most importantly, I learned that a job is more than just its listed duties and responsibilities. Throughout my internships, I improved my communication and professionalism skills. I have learned many job employability skills, including that showing up to your internship or job on time means being at least ten to fifteen minutes early, allowing you time to prepare.

Also, throughout my high school career, I have taken advantage of the opportunity to take college classes through Kirkwood’s dual enrollment program (all at no cost to my family!). After graduation next spring, I plan to attend Kirkwood Community College, double majoring in Criminal Justice and Cybersecurity and Networking.

Benton Community Schools Benton Development Group Virginia Gay Hospital and Clinics Kirkwood Benton County Center

Did you know hosting a high school intern can help build your future workforce?đź“Š Last school year, 41% of surveyed WLC i...
09/30/2026

Did you know hosting a high school intern can help build your future workforce?

đź“Š Last school year, 41% of surveyed WLC interns were offered employment or additional opportunities to intern or volunteer with their host business after completing their internship.

Interns bring fresh perspectives, enthusiasm, and support to your team, while giving students a chance to explore career opportunities firsthand. It's a win-win for businesses and students alike.

Learn how your organization can get involved: https://www.kirkwood.edu/workplace-learning-connection/partners-volunteers

New Staff Feature - Meg McMullenMeg McMullen is a new business liaison at the Kirkwood Regional Center in Coralville. Me...
09/29/2026

New Staff Feature - Meg McMullen

Meg McMullen is a new business liaison at the Kirkwood Regional Center in Coralville. Meg will build and strengthen relationships with business hosts in the Health and Human Services pathways.

Where did you work prior to WLC?
Prior to WLC, I worked at Performance Health and Fitness in Coralville for 16 years as a part-time group fitness instructor, as well as taught kids’ fitness classes at local daycares. This last year I was the Group Fitness Director at Performance. Before that, I spent 10 years working at my brother’s restaurant in Cedar Rapids in management and marketing.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
My husband and I stay very active; we love to cycle and walk various trails around Eastern Iowa.

What careers were you interested in when you were in high school?
In high school, I wanted to be a physical therapist or a hospital administrator. I had the opportunity to do a few job shadows at a local hospital, which helped me decide that I was not going to be a Physical Therapist, but that I did want to be in the health and wellness field in some capacity. That led me to UNI, where I got my degree in Health Promotions with an emphasis in Women’s Health.

From your perspective, why is career exploration such a pivotal part of a student’s educational journey?
Career exploration is pivotal because it helps students connect classroom learning to real-world possibilities and discover careers that align with their interests, strengths, and goals. It also empowers students to make informed decisions about their education and future while building confidence and a sense of purpose.

What are you looking forward to in your new role?
In my new role, I’m most looking forward to building relationships with our Johnson County business partners. I am also excited to get an up-close look at how this work can influence a student's life path.

Attention! The internship application portal for second-semester internship opportunities is NOW OPEN for high school ju...
09/28/2026

Attention! The internship application portal for second-semester internship opportunities is NOW OPEN for high school juniors and seniors.

Get an in-depth look at a career of interest, gain employability skills, and earn dual credit.

👉To learn more and apply now, go to: https://www.kirkwood.edu/workplace-learning-connection/internships/index

Don't forget, student registration for the Own Your Future event at Marion High School closes this Thursday, Oct. 1! Own...
09/28/2026

Don't forget, student registration for the Own Your Future event at Marion High School closes this Thursday, Oct. 1!

Own Your Future - Thursday, October 8th, 5:30–8:00

This event is a great opportunity for students to start exploring what comes after high school.

This future-focused event is FREE and open to all Linn County high school students.

Registration form linked in the comments.

Throwback!Last spring, WLC internship coordinator Ann Brendes placed seven students from Prairie High School’s Agricultu...
09/24/2026

Throwback!

Last spring, WLC internship coordinator Ann Brendes placed seven students from Prairie High School’s Agriculture Program in 90-hour internship experiences with local businesses, giving them valuable real-world industry skills and career experience.

In May, students showcased the culmination of their work by presenting their capstone projects to industry partners, administrators, staff, parents, and peers.

This impactful learning opportunity highlights the strong partnership between Prairie High School, Kirkwood Workplace Learning Connection, and the dedicated local internship hosts who invested their time and mentorship into student success. Through these experiences, students developed professional skills, explored agricultural career pathways, and strengthened connections within the community.

College Community School District Croell, Inc. Altorfer Cat Star Food Service Equipment & Repair Miracles In Motion Therapeutic Equestrian Ctr. Prairie Patch Farm Linn Co-op Oil Company Global Ties Iowa

"My favorite part about my WLC internship with ChildServe this summer was building strong relationships with my host and...
09/22/2026

"My favorite part about my WLC internship with ChildServe this summer was building strong relationships with my host and the patients. My important takeaway is that communication skills and motivation are the most important qualities for a speech therapist. I am thankful for the opportunity I had." - Chloe Halterman, Liberty High School - Speech Therapy Intern at ChildServe - Coralville

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Cedar Rapids, IA

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4pm
Tuesday 8am - 4pm
Wednesday 8am - 4pm
Thursday 8am - 4pm
Friday 8am - 4pm

Telephone

319-398-1040 in Linn County / 319-887-3970 in Johnson County

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