Work-Integrated Learning Innovation Center
Transforming Work-Integrated Learning for the Future
Employers seek talent with real-world experience. Learners need work-integrated learning opportunities to develop skills and social capital in professional settings––especially in a world where many entry level roles are changing due to automation. However, an estimated 4.6 million learners in the U.S. miss out. The Business-Higher Education Forum’s (BHEF) Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Innovation Center helps businesses and educators expand hands-on learning models—like internships, apprenticeships, and project-based experiences—that align education with workforce needs to produce talent-ready graduates and prepare learners for high-demand careers.
Focus Areas
Leveraging the expertise of BHEF’s business and higher education members, as well as its ed-tech and HR-tech strategic partners, this initiative drives impact in three key areas:
Share Solutions
Across the education and work ecosystem there is significant innovation occurring to imagine, build and scale effective models for WIL that meet the needs of various learner, employer, and institutional populations. To share key learnings, the BHEF resource hub will feature research and case studies to empower educators and employers with effective WIL strategies. Using examples of learnings from across our national network, we provide stakeholders with the tools to replicate and scale high-impact experiential learning models.
Activate a Network for Change
WIL is a space with evolving approaches, partners, and learnings and to implement new models requires change management. To support innovative leaders, we host interactive convenings—including webinars and roundtables—that unite business and higher education leaders to tackle shared challenges, co-develop solutions, and drive systemic change in WIL.
Design the Future of WIL
In addition, we provide tailored consulting and technical assistance from experienced practitioners to organizations looking to implement and expand innovative WIL models. Our team and network are positioned to equip stakeholders with the tools and frameworks to establish and scale transformative learning experiences.
Stay Connected
Collaboration between business and higher education has never been more critical to evolve WIL and meet the demands of a rapidly shifting workforce. BHEF’s WIL Innovation Center brings together leaders, research, and best practices to design and scale high-impact, hands-on learning models that prepare learners for the future of work. Stay engaged and gain access to cutting-edge insights, pioneering strategies, and a network of changemakers driving real transformation. Join us in shaping the future of WIL—connect with us today.