Career Launch programs combine paid, on-the-job experience with college-level classroom learning to prepare students for immediate employment with valuable credentials.

These educational programs and registered apprenticeships span K-12 schools, technical colleges, and four-year universities. Participants earn while they learn through paid work experience, gaining real-world skills that meet rigorous state standards.

Career Launch programs connect employers with young adults and students, bridging education and employment to build a skilled, job-ready workforce.

Programs must receive Career Launch endorsement to verify they combine on-the-job experience with classroom learning and meet our standards. Registered apprenticeships are automatically endorsed, while K-12, community college, technical college, and 4-year programs can apply for endorsement.

We aim to ensure that 60% of young adults beginning in the class of 2030 will participate in a Career Launch program.

Search the Directory for Opportunities:

Do you have a program that may qualify as Career Launch?

Spotlight on Success: Program Examples

Veterinary Technician Registered Apprenticeship Program – Cascade Veterinary Clinics

Designed to address critical workforce shortages in North Central Washington, this program combines paid, hands-on training with supplemental instruction to prepare apprentices for the national LVT licensing exam.

“Developing the first-ever registered LVT apprenticeship program required persistence, collaboration, and innovation. From navigating political challenges to building the program in-house with limited resources, we were driven by a commitment to advancing the veterinary profession. Thanks to the support of our dedicated team, community members, and leadership, we created a sustainable model that is now paving the way for other programs to follow.” Learn more.

Ironworkers Apprenticeship Program

Through the Local 86 Ironworkers Apprenticeship Program, apprentices earn nationally recognized credentials while gaining skills tailored to industry needs on their way to becoming journey-level ironworkers.

WSU Tri-Cities Teaching Bridge Program

Connecting young educators with hands-on learning and teaching experience to prepare them for real, local careers in education in their communities.

Career Launch benefits

Career Launch programs create powerful partnerships between education institutions, employers, and students to create a future-ready, competitive workforce in Washington state. Learn more about the benefits of participating:

Benefits of Career Launch to Employers

  • Develop talent for hard-to-fill jobs
  • Reduce hiring expenses and HR costs
  • Improve company culture and loyalty
  • Increase employee retention
  • Build diverse and innovative teams
  • Create a robust talent pipeline
  • Learn how to meet your hiring needs

Benefits of Career Launch Endorsement

  • Access to dedicated funding through K-12 and Technical College systems
  • Inclusion in the online career connected learning directory
  • Recognition as an approved state Career Launch program

Benefits of Career Launch to Education Partners

  • Access dedicated equipment funding
  • Students benefit from paid, hands-on experience integrated with academic training
  • Meet growing demand for career connected learning pathways

Benefits of Career Launch to Students

  • Earn while you learn – gain paid, real-world experience and professional skills
  • Gain industry-recognized credentials that advance your career 
  • Start your career with real workplace experience and industry connections



Are you a business or educator?

If you are a business or educator with an effective program we could include as a “Spotlight on Success” email us at info@careerconnectwa.org.

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