On-the-Job Training Program
Real Skills. Real Work. Real Futures.
The Foundation for Edmonds School District’s On-the-Job Training (OJT) Program, in partnership with the Edmonds School District Career and Technical Education Program, prepares students for life after high school through a combination of career-focused coursework and hands-on work experience.
Students who complete the program are also eligible to receive a scholarship, helping them take the next step toward post-secondary education.
Gain Experience
Build Skills
Unlock the Future
Why It Matters
Students who participate in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are more likely to graduate on time, because they see a clearer connection between what they’re learning and their future.
Through the two year program, students:
- Enroll in dual credit coursework, earning college or certificated credits
- Participate in paid, credit-bearing internships, with first-year wages paid by the Foundation
- Gain hands-on work experience in professional settings
- Develop job-ready skills they can apply immediately
- Build confidence navigating workplace expectations
Upon successful completion, students:
- Earn a Certificate of Work Readiness
- Become eligible for a Foundation scholarship to support their post-secondary goals
For many students, this program provides an engaging path through high school, one that connects academic learning with real-world application.
Student Story
Through the OJT program, Alice spent two years building skills in the classroom and applying them through a paid, credit-bearing internship.
During her placement with scientists at the University of Washington Bothell, she participated in hands-on research that deepened her interest in biology and strengthened her confidence working in a professional setting.
That experience connected closely to her own life. Born with a genetic blood disorder, Alice spent much of her childhood navigating medical appointments and complex information about her condition. As she grew older and began researching it herself, she developed a desire to help others better understand their diagnoses and care.
Through the OJT program, Alice gained both the technical experience and the direction to pursue that goal.
Now, she will be the first in her family to graduate from high school and attend college. She plans to study biology and pursue a career as a medical geneticist or genetic counselor, helping patients better understand their illnesses and treatment options.
For Businesses
When you partner with the Foundation's OJT program, you’re helping shape a young person’s future.
Students arrive with foundational training and ongoing support, making them more prepared and confident in the workplace.
As a host site, you will:
- Provide meaningful, supervised work experiences
- Help students apply the skills they’ve learned in class
- Support the development of future employees in your field
- Strengthen your connection to the local community
- Commit to a two-year internship
- Pay the 2nd year internship wages
The Foundation and school staff coordinate placements, prepare students, and provide ongoing support throughout the experience.
Get Involved
Become an Internship Site
If you’re interested in hosting a student or learning more about the program, we’d love to connect!
Contact: Vanessa Edwards, Business Partnerships and Career Connected Learning Coordinator, Edmonds School District
Email: edwardsv926@edmonds.wednet.edu
Phone: 425-431-7322
Learn more about the Foundation
If you would like to know more about the work of the Foundation and other ways you can partner with us, we would love to hear from you!
Contact: Deborah Brandi, Executive Director
Email: deb@foundationesd.org
Phone: 425-431-7260
Help a student take their next step with confidence.
Your business can open the door to real opportunity.