Welcome To Southern Tech - Applying For The Work-Based Learning Director Position

Purpose of Job:  The Director of Work-Based Learning is responsible for the strategic development, implementation, and oversight of all apprenticeship and internship programs for students enrolled in both full-time career training programs and short-term certification courses. This position plays a key role in building partnerships with business and industry, coordinating with instructional staff, and aligning student work-based experiences with state and federal guidelines to ensure quality and relevance.

 

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, implement, and manage a comprehensive work-based learning program, including internships, apprenticeships, and other career-connected experiences.
• Develop strong partnerships with employers, community leaders, and workforce organizations to expand high-quality placement opportunities.
• Align work-based learning programs with local, state, and federal regulations, including Registered Apprenticeship standards (as applicable).
• Collaborate with instructors and Program Directors to integrate work-based learning components into program curriculum and identify students eligible for WBL placement.
• Oversee student recruitment, eligibility screening, placement coordination, and progress monitoring for all internship and apprenticeship experiences.
• Provide training and guidance for employers and mentors to ensure productive and supportive learning environments.
• Track student outcomes, maintain required documentation, and report data for compliance, funding, and program evaluation purposes.
• Represent the school in workforce development initiatives, chambers of commerce, and other relevant regional or state-level networks.
• Coordinate industry feedback on skill needs and ensure programs adapt to evolving workforce demands.

 

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in education, workforce development, business, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in education, workforce development, or program direction and coordination.
• Knowledge of work-based learning models, career and technical education, and apprenticeship standards.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills with employers, educators, and students.
• Experience managing partnerships and aligning program objectives with labor market needs.
• Proficient in data tracking, reporting systems, and program compliance practices.

 

Preferred Knowledge and Skills:

• Familiarity with Oklahoma-specific apprenticeship or work-based learning initiatives (e.g., Oklahoma Works, DOL Registered Apprenticeships).
• Experience working in a technical school, workforce board, or economic development setting.
• Understanding of adult education and credentialing for short-term training programs.
• Working knowledge of computerized office programs, Oklahoma School Law, federal and state laws, and the SouthernTech education system.
• Function as an effective SouthernTech team player.
• Excellent verbal and written communications and presentation skills.
• Ability to function professionally during high stress situations.
• Ability to implement, facilitate, and complete multiple projects in a timely and efficient manner.
• Demonstrated ability to motivate and direct diverse individuals and employers.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate, through a variety of media, with a wide range of government, industry, and other groups and individuals.
• Knowledge of industry certifications provided through SouthernTech training.

 

Physical and Mental Requirements:

 

Physical Requirements:

• Sit for extended periods.
• Manipulate computer keyboard.
• Keen hearing: (ability to listen to others)
• Vision: Close and distance vision required.
• Be able to communicate.
• Be able to properly and legally operate a school vehicle as required to travel on behalf of the district.
• Regularly lift up to 25 lbs. (occasionally up to 50 lbs.)
• Ability to bend and stoop.

 

Mental Requirements:

• Ability to read directions and instructions.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to respond to common inquiries or concerns from customers, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community and the Board of Education.
• Ability to write documents and effectively present information.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.
• Ability to function professionally during high stress situations.
• Ability to implement, facilitate, and complete multiple projects in a timely and efficient manner.

 

Work Environment:

Primarily an office environment; occasionally walking or working near moving mechanical equipment, fumes or airborne particles, and outdoor weather conditions. Travel inside and outside of district will be required.

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