1. Work-Based Learning Consultancy Conference Call
May 24, 2016
3 – 4 p.m. EST

2. Presenters
Facilitator: Christian Lagarde, Project Manager, Workforce and Economic Development, American Association of Community Colleges Grantee: Jonathan Friedman, Grant Executive Director, New Horizons: Puerto Rico Lasers and Photonics Career Pathways Program, Universidad Metropolitana, Round 4

3. Introduction and Overview—5 minutes
Stages: Time Allowed:
Introduction and overview minutes
Presentation of the problem minutes
Clarifying questions minutes
Probing questions minutes
Group discussion minutes
Presenter responds minutes
Reflection minutes

4. Presentation of the Problem—10 minutes
Overview of the problem: We have been cultivating industry involvement in our program since April 2014, when we held our first Industry Affiliates Meeting. In particular, we have been seeking commitments to take our participants in 8-week internships since the beginning. Our industry focus has been on aerospace, medical devices, and communications.
The questions we have for you are:
How can we achieve a more positive response from industry?
At the TAACCCT Convening in February, we heard from programs where industries are very interested and involved. What is the difference? 
Most internship programs are for students in degree programs. Has anyone achieved a pilot program for non-degree (Certificate or other) interns?
We do not have a specific structure for our internship program. It is basically work experience with feedback from their industry mentor/supervisor. Are there other models that may be more effective?

5. Clarifying Questions—5 minutes
Do you have any clarifying questions?
Are there any facts that you need in order to brainstorm solutions?

6. Probing Questions—5 minutes
Do you have any questions that could help the presenter think about the problem in a new light? Examples:
Is it likely that industry is not yet interested in us because we do not have a track record? If so, how can you break the ice before the track record is established?
Although you have focused on internships, is it possible that a more formalized work-based learning/apprenticeship program would motivate industry to partner with you?

7. Group Discussion—15 minutes
Discussion may address:
What has industry said to us?
Why do some companies not respond at all?
What thoughts do we have from our own experiences that might inform this dilemma?
What do we think about the question and issue(s) presented?

8. Group Discussion (cont.)—15 minutes
Warm feedback examples:
What are the strengths in this situation?
What’s the good news here?
Cooler
Where are the gaps?
What isn’t the presenter considering?
General
I wonder what would happen if ...?
I wonder why . . .?

9. Presenter Responds—15 minutes
The presenters may respond to what they’ve heard during your discussion and everyone can discuss the problem and potential solutions.

10. Reflection—5 minutes
How has the consultancy experience been for you? Do you have any observations to share about the process, or the results of the process?

11. TAACCCT Learning Network at a Glance
U.S. Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration
(National)
Jobs for the Future
Maher & Maher
American Association of Community Colleges
CalState/Merlot
U.S. National Science Foundation
ATE Centers
Other Non-Federal Providers of TA and Resources for TAACCCT Grantees:
Creative Commons
CAST
The Transformative Change Initiative

12. If you want to learn more about peer mentoring email TAACCCT@dol.gov
Thank You!
Connect with the NEW TAACCCT Community of Practice and search for TAACCCT resources at:
Ask questions and to connect with peers and resources at
If you want to learn more about peer mentoring