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CEO Patrick O’Donnell shares how the HealthX program is the start of connecting career exploration, work-based learning, and credential attainment into a coherent sequence as a part of a new grades 11-14 model.
Making Waves is partnering with Kaiser to provide this paid work-based learning experience, which includes mentorship, a stipend, and a healthcare credential. 50 students in grades 11-12 at 12+ high schools across Contra Costa County were selected, among 150+ applicants.
Making Waves and Dega Systems are launching a new internship program that will provide college student with hands-on experience in information technology, or IT, and business operations. The pilot partnership represents a model for how other employers can get involved.
Making Waves is launching Pathways to Health: Paid Career Program, a new four-day, earn-and-learn experience designed to help Bay Area high school juniors and seniors explore in-demand healthcare careers while gaining hands-on skills, mentorship, and a stipend of up to $400.
We are reimagining what it means to prepare students across Contra Costa County for the future, ensuring they have both the education and the experience to achieve economic mobility and fulfilling lives. Learn more in our 2024-25 Making Waves Impact Report!
Making Waves CEO Patrick O’Donnell shares a leadership update on a strategic visioning process with an emerging model focusing on the critical transition years between high school, college, and career.
Making Waves VP of Partnerships Justin Douglas and Allen Matkins Partner Mark Mengelberg share a case study of a successful corporate and nonprofit partnership that demonstrates impact, engages employees, and builds community.
You’ll hear which jobs in the Bay Area are in the highest demand, what employers really look for, and how to prepare for success starting in high school. You’ll hear about new career development opportunities at Making Waves – ones that offer students in the Bay Area’s Contra Costa County opportunities to gain hands-on experience and grow their network, all while getting paid!
This new six-month work-based learning program connects Contra Costa County teens with the skills, certifications, and mentors needed for in-demand healthcare jobs.
This summer, Making Waves CEO Patrick O’Donnell joined leaders from Climb Hire, Handshake, Rooted School, and SkillUp for a candid conversation on the future of education and career programs. “We explored approaches, partnerships, and system-level changes that are needed to create pathways to economic mobility. I’m excited to share some key takeaways and look forward to continuing the discussion.”
Experts from K–12, higher education, and workforce development share five key takeaways to bridge the education to career gap.
We need to bridge the gap between education and employment — and we need to do it differently than before. That’s why we’re testing new approaches as we develop a long-term vision to create accelerated pathways from high school to high-wage, high-demand careers.
