what’ s working
“ Imagine if every business, every company in Washington, provided even one or two of those experiences. How many trajectories and lives might we change?” said Paula Linnen, board chair of the AWB Institute and principal of The Foster Institute.
Employers who want to support their communities and help ensure a solid workforce for their own futures have a vision: connect education to opportunity, open doors for every student, and ensure businesses of all sizes can help shape the next generation of talent.
*** Ariana Wilson was an AWB communications intern during the summer of 2025. Visit WashingtonWorkforcePortal. org to learn more about bringing interns into your workplace.
“ To build a successful brand, you have to be part of the community— a resource people can count on.”
— Justin Lagerway, quality control manager for Munson Boats in Burlington about the northwest career & technical academy
The Northwest Career & Technical Academy is a tuition-free regional skills center that gives students the opportunity to turn their career aspirations into practical paths. Serving high school juniors, seniors, and young adults across Skagit, Whatcom, and Snohomish counties, NCTA blends classroom instruction with hands-on, industry-standard training.
Their programs include healthcare, veterinary assisting, aerospace manufacturing, welding, culinary arts, and game development The aim is to give students real-world experiences that translate directly into college credits, industry certifications, and in-demand job skills.
how can employers incorporate these programs into their businesses?
1. Apprenticeship programs 2. Hands-on training within the workplace 3. Partner with schools or career programs fall 2025 29