Virginia Launched Statewide Job Training Catalog
The new resource helps employers navigate work-based learning models and talent strategies.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Internships
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Virginia Works has introduced a comprehensive statewide catalog designed to guide employers through implementing work-based learning programs. The resource was developed in collaboration with the Virginia Economic Development Partnership and other state agencies.
Why it matters
The initiative addresses direct feedback from employers who sought clearer guidance on integrating work-based learning into their long-term talent acquisition strategies.
The catalog features 18 distinct work-based learning models organized into 4 progressive stages to assist with business implementation. It also provides guidance on site readiness, supervision, and youth employment requirements.
The players
Virginia Works
This is a state agency responsible for overseeing employment programs and labor initiatives across Virginia.
Virginia Economic Development Partnership
This organization promotes the state of Virginia as a premier business destination and works to stimulate economic growth through private sector partnerships.
The details
Employers can now access detailed information on wages, insurance, liability, and documentation directly through the Virginia Works employer development page. This structure aims to streamline the adoption of training programs across various sectors in the state.
Timeline
October 1, 2026: Virginia Works launched the work-based learning catalog.
Market Landscape
The new catalog reflects a growing shift toward standardized state-level support for apprenticeship and training programs, moving beyond federal guidelines into practical, localized implementation tools. By providing this resource, Virginia positions its business sector to better compete for talent by removing the administrative barriers often associated with non-traditional hiring pipelines.
Business owners and managers in Virginia can now utilize this catalog to simplify the legal and administrative steps required to hire interns or apprentices. These streamlined processes may reduce the time and costs previously required to launch effective work-based learning programs.
The takeaway
Employers should review the 18 available learning models to identify which stages best align with their current organizational capacity. Leveraging state-verified documentation can mitigate liability risks while creating more robust talent pipelines for future growth.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest resources for businesses on the Virginia Internships page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Henrico Citizen.
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Should local businesses increase their efforts to provide structured work-based learning programs?
