Co-op Learning

Location: Washington, DC (Hybrid: Tuesdays + one additional day/week)

Compensation: $25/hr (undergraduate), $28/hr (graduate)

Hours: 30–35/week

Duration: 4–6 months

Travel: Up to 15% (fully covered by Strada including flights, hotel, and meals)

Housing: Co‑op participants are responsible for securing their own housing during the program

Strada Education Foundation advances programs, policies, and partnerships that strengthen connections between education and employment—particularly for learners who have historically faced barriers to opportunity. Strada’s strategic plan focuses on five areas: clear outcomes, affordability, quality coaching, work‑based learning, and employer alignment. We partner with education institutions, nonprofits, employers, startups, and policymakers to improve economic mobility for all learners.

• Support the design and documentation of a step‑by‑step process for the Work‑Based Learning team to support states in expanding high‑quality work‑based learning. This may also include supporting Strada’s Quality Coaching and Affordability teams who do similar work.
• Contribute to a list of resources to be used in delivering effective state technical assistance.
• Monitor the emerging landscape of artificial intelligence as it relates to work‑based learning, policy, and workforce development, and test new artificial intelligence tools for potential applications in scaling work‑based learning.
• Conduct research on state‑level policies, laws, and appropriations related to the support and elevation of work‑based learning across the U.S.
• Help document and synthesize learning from the Work‑Based Learning portfolio of grants.

• Process & Resource Development (20%)
  • Design and document a step‑by‑step process for supporting states as they expand high‑quality work‑based learning.
  • Develop an organized resource repository to support state‑facing technical assistance.
• AI Exploration & Applied Innovation (20%)
  • Monitor emerging developments in artificial intelligence relevant to work‑based learning, career pathways, and workforce policy.
  • Test and evaluate AI tools for potential application in scaling work‑based learning initiatives.
• Policy Research & State Landscape Analysis (20%)
  • Conduct research on state‑level policies, laws, and appropriations related to work‑based learning.
• Model Research & Content Development (20%)
  • Conduct in‑depth research on innovative, equitable work‑based learning models.
• Grant Learnings (20%)
  • Document insights from Work‑Based Learnings’ grant portfolio.
  • Synthesize insights into summative documents.

• Exposure:
  Participate in leadership meetings, cross‑functional working sessions, and industry interviews, gaining deep insight into nonprofit, postsecondary education, and workforce development.
• High‑Impact Work:
  Lead long‑term projects in state policy analysis, AI application, and process design that directly contribute to Strada’s strategic goals.
• Mentorship & Networking:
  Work directly with experienced leaders, receive structured feedback, and build a professional network spanning nonprofits, higher education, and workforce organizations.

• At least two years out of high school and currently enrolled in a postsecondary education program at a college or university.
• Demonstrated ability to learn quickly and contribute in a collaborative environment.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to summarize complex research clearly (e.g., policy, AI).
• Excellent attention to detail, time management, and problem‑solving abilities.
• Proficiency with Google Suite and Microsoft Office; familiarity with Zoom and Slack is a plus.
• Self‑motivated, able to work independently while being open to feedback.
• Passionate about promoting equitable opportunities in education and employment.

• Answer the Application Questions.
• Attach Your Resume.
• Submit a Cover Letter detailing your interest in this co‑op and Strada’s mission.