How local partnerships help Ingham ISD students—and businesses—grow together.
When students step into a workplace through the Wilson Talent Center’s (WTC) work-based learning program, they’re not just exploring careers—they’re filling a vital need in Michigan’s workforce.
In this episode of the Education UnPacked Podcast, host Micki O’Neil talks with Monique Colizzi and Jamie George, Career Readiness and Work-Based Learning Coordinators at WTC, about what businesses are looking for, why soft skills matter, and how local partnerships are shaping the future of the region’s talent pipeline.
Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts.
Download the full E08 Transcript.
What Employers Really Want
Across every industry, employers say the same thing: soft skills matter most.
Dependability. Teamwork. Coachability. Problem-solving.
“Employers can teach technical skills,” says Colizzi. “But when students come in already dependable, collaborative, and willing to learn, that’s what sets them apart.”
Through WTC’s programs, students develop both technical expertise and professional habits that prepare them to make an impact from day one.
From Co-Op to Career Training
While internships have evolved over the years, the structure and goals remain the same: connecting classroom learning to real-world experience.
“It used to be called co-op,” explains George. “Same idea—students get hands-on learning, but today, the need is even greater. There’s a huge talent gap, and employers across every sector are looking for the next generation of workers.”
Students at WTC often earn certifications, credentials, and college credit—advantages that make them highly marketable before graduation.
New Partnerships and Local Impact
Employers are taking notice. Ingham County businesses are reaching out in record numbers to host job shadows, mock interviews, and internships.
Some of WTC’s community partners include:
Block Imaging
Franchino Mold and Engineering
Maury’s of Okemos
Merindorf Meats
Crowne Plaza Lansing
Everything is Cheesecake
Local healthcare facilities
“Everywhere we visit,” says Colizzi, “someone tells us, ‘We’ve hired Wilson Talent Center students—or our kids went there.’ It’s amazing to see how far-reaching the impact is.”
Job Shadows vs. Internships: Finding the Right Fit
Students begin with job shadows—one- to two-hour visits that let them explore work culture and career fit.
Then, many progress into career training placements, spending two to four days a week working for pay or credit while still meeting with instructors weekly.
“It’s eye-opening for students,” says George. “Sometimes they realize it’s not what they expected—and sometimes they find their passion.”
From High School to Hired
These experiences often lead to long-term employment or apprenticeship programs after graduation.
At Block Imaging, for example, a growing number of WTC graduates now participate in two- to four-year apprenticeships that combine hands-on work with continued education.
“Many of our students get hired after these experiences,” says George. “It’s exciting to see it turn from an unpaid experience into a job offer.”
Teaching Students to Lead Their Own Journey
While staff help coordinate placements, students take ownership of finding and approaching potential employers—building confidence and communication skills along the way.
“We tell them, ‘Employers won’t just fall out of the sky,’” laughs Colizzi.
“They learn to research, make calls, drop off resumes, and set up meetings. That initiative is part of the learning process.”
Why It Matters
Programs like WTC’s work-based learning strengthen the entire community:
Students gain real experience and confidence.
Employers build relationships with a new generation of skilled workers.
The region develops a sustainable talent pipeline that keeps opportunity local.
As Colizzi sums it up:
“It’s not just about learning to work—it’s about learning to lead.”
Learn More
Discover more about work-based learning opportunities at the Wilson Talent Center through Ingham ISD at inghamisd.org/wtc.
Find more stories from Michigan schools at BackPackPress.org.
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