EPIC Collaborations: Harnessing Work-Based Learning to Shape Student Success

In today’s professional environment, the value of work-based learning cannot be overstated. Learning beyond the classroom and working directly with businesses provides students with career connections and workplace skills while increasing their awareness of in-demand industries. However, there are simply not enough work-based learning opportunities for all the students who are eager to participate in one.

In response to this demand, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation aims to increase the number of high-quality work-based learning opportunities through its Employer Provided Innovation Challenges (EPIC) initiative. Built on our deep ties to a network of local chambers and business associations, EPIC leverages the U.S. Chamber Foundation’s convening power to connect students with employers and work on real-world business challenges. These challenges, grounded in authentic business problems, help prepare students for careers, sharpen their professional skills, and increase their awareness about various job functions and industries.

The second annual EPIC Summer Convening showcased the achievements of EPIC learners, highlighted partnerships that make the program possible, and looked towards a future that provides students with unique opportunities for personal and professional growth.

This year, four student teams presented their solutions to the authentic business challenges they worked on through the EPIC initiative.

East Stroudsburg University: Enhancing AT&T’s Talent Strategy

Students from East Stroudsburg University (ESU) in Pennsylvania partnered with AT&T through the PA Chamber Foundation. Their challenge was to evaluate and enhance AT&T’s recruitment and onboarding strategies to attract and retain Gen Z talent. The student team explored both internal and external factors influencing hiring outcomes and conducted peer surveys to gather insights. Their findings emphasized the importance of a more immersive and engaging recruitment experience. As ESU student Leslie Portes Nunez shared, “Real people cause a real impact.” Their recommendations included leveraging social media to expand outreach, personalizing the onboarding process, and communicating job benefits to boost interest and retention among younger applicants.

Georgia Black Home Educators Network: Innovative Solutions in Food Production

In Atlanta, students from the Georgia Black Home Educators Network (GBHEN), under the guidance of industry association Georgia Life Sciences, worked with Blue Heron Urban Farms & Sanctuary in Fulton County and explored innovative farming practices to identify ways that farmers can mitigate financial challenges. The students discovered how regenerative farming practices and innovative technology can increase crop yields, and how business strategies such as university partnerships and agritourism can foster commercial success. This hands-on experience immersed students in the world of sustainable farming, opening students' eyes to the necessity of business management and innovation in today’s agricultural industry.

Winthrop University: Enhancing Community Health

In Rock Hill, South Carolina, the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce connected Winthrop University students with Keystone Substance Abuse Services, the county’s designated substance abuse authority. Students were tasked with contributing to Keystone’s upcoming strategic planning by evaluating its public perception within the community. Through surveys and focus groups, they collected and analyzed data, ultimately developing innovative recommendations focused on enhancing collaboration, communication, and community consultation. This project not only provided Keystone with actionable, fresh insights but also gave students meaningful experience in applied research, data analysis, teamwork, and strategic thinking, while highlighting the real-world impact of community engagement.

Oakland Schools Technical Campuses: Connecting with Local Businesses

In Detroit, in partnership with Emerge, the U.S. Chamber Foundation facilitated a connection between Oakland Schools Technical Campuses (OSTC) and the Oakland Schools Education Foundation. Students were challenged to identify how OSTC can foster connections and build long-term relationships with businesses outside of their current network. The students developed a plan to implement OSTC campus tours for local businesses. These tours would allow employers to connect with students and learn about OSTC’s unique strengths in preparing students for immediate work after high school. While gaining experience in effective communication, students helped lay the groundwork for longstanding relationships with local businesses that will continue to benefit both the campuses and the greater Oakland community.

Lessons Learned from EPIC: One Year Out

This year’s convening featured a discussion with 2024 EPIC learners Diego Juarez and Sam Solis, showcasing the lasting impact of the program’s hands-on, career-connected learning. Through EPIC, both students gained access to professional and educational opportunities while developing essential skills such as time management, leadership, and confidence. For Sam, EPIC played a pivotal role in his college journey, serving as a key talking point in his application essays and contributing to his college acceptances. Diego leveraged the experience to propel his professional career, securing a marketing internship and launching his own company to support local businesses through paid advertising. Beyond a career boost, EPIC also ignited their passion for community impact. As Diego shared, “an interest of mine that drives me now is the chance to work locally and see economic change within my community.”

The participants also heard from U.S. Chamber Foundation’s Peter Beard, who introduced our new Skill Savings Account concept, designed to support workforce upskilling and reskilling through dedicated savings accounts for educational expenses.

By providing students with the opportunity to examine and address the challenges of today, EPIC equips future workers with real-world skills to become the leaders and problem-solvers of tomorrow.

A special thank you to our EPIC partners and sponsors: