Soft skills training and education related to the top ten skills identified by the Pennsylvania study would benefit educators as much as ethics training and the other required annual trainings.  

Statistical data supports curricular models that integrate soft skill lessons into career education programming for our students.  As businesses continue to evaluate candidates on their soft skills as well as their hard skills, students need to learn to problem solve, think critically, and communicate effectively to be successful in the classroom and workplace.  

It is essential to vet businesses to minimize liability risks when placing students in WBL environments.  Equally important is ensuring that WBL coordinator is knowledgeable about current laws and regulations governing youth participation in WBL experiences.  This module provided several links and resources to support this process.

It is important to develop strong foundational plans that outline clear expectations for all stakeholders to ensure a successful program implementation and meaningful WBL experience for students and business partners.  The coordinator plays a significant role in this process and must collaborate with the WBL teacher, counselors, parents, and students to ensure their academic and career goals align with the needs and interests of the business partners and vice versa.