Strategic Communications & Outreach Coordinator

Based with Reach Higher Montana in Helena, the Montana Work-Based Learning Collaborative (WBLC) brings together more than 30 public and private partners committed to expanding high-quality work-based learning opportunities across the state. As the backbone organization for the collaborative, Reach Higher Montana helps connect educators, employers, and community leaders to prepare Montana’s youth and young adults for meaningful careers and long-term success.

This AmeriCorps VISTA project is designed to help more Montanans access high-demand, high-growth careers by strengthening pathways from education to employment. Through internships, career exploration, apprenticeships, and other hands-on learning experiences, the project equips young people with employability skills, professional networks, and technical expertise that support long-term economic mobility. At the same time, the initiative works to build sustainable infrastructure for schools, employers, and community programs so strong work-based learning systems can thrive beyond any one staff member or supervisor.

The VISTA member will play a key role in expanding the reach and impact of the WBLC by developing communications and program resources that support collaborative members statewide. This includes creating marketing and digital media materials, strengthening outreach efforts, and developing tools that help educators and employers deliver effective work-based learning experiences. The VISTA will also track project impact through performance measures such as social media engagement, use of outreach materials by partner organizations, and increased participation from schools and employers across Montana.

Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement (MCNCE) serves as the intermediary organization for this project. MCNCE is a statewide coalition of colleges and universities dedicated to advancing civic engagement, service-learning, and volunteerism throughout Montana. Each year, MCNCE supports cohorts of full-time, part-time, and summer AmeriCorps members serving with schools, nonprofits, colleges, and government agencies. Together, these partnerships expand educational opportunity, strengthen connections between campuses and communities, and address the root causes of poverty across the state.