Connecting today’s businesses with tomorrow’s talent
The NoCo K12 Work-Based Learning Collaborative helps businesses engage with local high schools to shape the future workforce. Whether you’re exploring work-based learning (WBL) for the first time or expanding your involvement, we make it simple and meaningful.
Through our regional network and the free Xello platform, we guide you in offering experiences like internships, job shadows, guest speaking, and mentoring. We partner closely with educators to match students with your business, helping you build a strong talent pipeline, raise brand awareness, and support your community—all with personalized support at every step.
BUSINESS PARTNERS
Engage with students through Work-Based Learning (WBL) to strengthen your business:
- Recruit Early Talent: Identify future employees through internships and job shadows.
- Build a Talent Pipeline: Share hiring needs and grow career awareness.
- Boost Visibility & Impact: Support education and lead in your community.
- Advance Inclusion: Connect with diverse students to broaden your workforce.
THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE
WBL helps students grow through real-world exposure:
- Explore Career Paths: Discover careers aligned with their interests.
- Engage with Employers: Connect with local industries and opportunities.
- Build Job Skills: Gain soft skills, confidence, and workplace readiness.
- Grow Their Network: Build professional relationships for future opportunities.
THE VALUE OF XELLO
Xello links students and businesses for meaningful WBL experiences:
- All-in-One Access: A central hub for business engagement in WBL.
- Student Career Tool: Helps students explore aligned career options.
- Business Support: The Collaborative offers setup help and ongoing support.
- Smart Matching: Connects students and partners based on interests.
NoCo K12 Work-Based Learning Collaborative
Regional K12 Work-Based Learning Business Manager
Stefanie Merrell | smerrell@fcchamber.org | 970-443-0969
Colorado Early Colleges (Fort Collins)
Ross Meyer | ross.meyer@coloradoearlycolleges.org | 970-481-3900
Poudre School District (Fort Collins/Timnath/Wellington)
Nick Peterson | npeterson@psdschools.org | 970-556-5218
Thompson School District (Loveland/Berthoud)
Susan Scott | susan.scott@tsd.org | 970-541-1232
Weld RE-3J School District (Hudson/Keenesburg/Lochbuie)
Michele Ferguson | micheleferguson@re3j.com | 303-348-6305
Weld RE-4 School District (Windsor/Severance)
Christina Wharton | christina.wharton@weldre4.org | 970-686-8048
Weld RE-5J School District (Johnstown/Milliken)
Jennifer Boresen | jboresen@weldre5j.org | 970-587-6118
