About RIEXL

The Rhode Island Experiential Learning Navigator (RI EXL) is designed to help Rhode Island educators find high-quality career awareness, career exploration, and work-based learning opportunities for their K-12 students.

 

While making it easy for employers to connect with schools and play a direct role in shaping the future workforce.

 

We believe that from early education through high school, every student should have the opportunity to explore careers and discover the possibilities waiting for them right here in Rhode Island. RI EXL connects K-12 educators with a wide range of career-based learning experiences, from career speaker opportunities to workplace tours and internships, ensuring every student has equitable access to hands-on learning.  

 

Through hands-on learning experiences that align with Rhode Island’s in-demand industries, we help employers connect with future talent while empowering students to gain real-world skills. RI EXL bridges the gap between education and workforce development, ensuring businesses can invest in and shape the next generation of skilled workers. 

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Why is this important?

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Launched in January 2025, the Rhode Island Experiential Learning Navigator (RIEXL) was created to bridge the gap between education and workforce development by making it easier for educators to connect students with meaningful career experiences. Sponsored by the Governor’s Workforce Board and powered by Junior Achievement of Rhode Island, RIEXL serves as a centralized platform for K-12 schools, employers, and students to access work-based/career-based learning opportunities across the state. ​​

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While still in its early stages, the initiative is designed to grow, expanding its reach and impact to ensure students in Rhode Island has access to real-world learning experiences that support their career readiness. 

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Who we serve 

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RIEXL is designed to support the entire ecosystem of career exploration and workforce development in Rhode Island, ensuring that K-12 students have access to real-world learning experiences that prepare them for the future. 
 

• Employers – Rhode Island businesses and organizations play a critical role in shaping the workforce of tomorrow. By offering job shadows, internships, workplace tours, and mentorship opportunities, employers can connect directly with local schools, influence career readiness, and build a future talent pipeline.

• Educators – Teachers, school counselors, and administrators can easily find and connect their students with career exploration programs, internships, and training opportunities that align with classroom learning and career readiness goals. 

• Students – Whether they are just beginning to explore career paths or looking for hands-on learning experiences, K-12 students can access opportunities that help them develop skills, build confidence, and make informed decisions about their futures. 

How it works
 

RIEXL makes it easy for educators, students, and employers to connect and create meaningful work-based learning experiences. The platform streamlines the process, ensuring that every opportunity is accessible and aligned with career readiness goals. 
 

• For Educators: Browse opportunities, connect with employers, and match students with hands-on experiences. 

• For Employers: Share opportunities, connect with schools, and help develop Rhode Island’s future workforce. 
   

By simplifying the process, RIEXL ensures every student can gain valuable career exposure and skills. 

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Future Goals and Vision  

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RIEXL was built with a long-term vision: to ensure every K-12 student in Rhode Island has access to high-quality work-based learning experiences that prepare them for the future. As the initiative grows, we aim to: 
 

• Expand Opportunities – Continuously add new internships, career exploration programs, and hands-on training experiences to serve students across all grade levels. 

• Strengthen Employer Partnerships – Build relationships with local businesses and industries to create a wider range of opportunities that align with Rhode Island’s workforce needs. 

• Enhance Accessibility – Ensure all students, regardless of background or location, have equitable access to meaningful career experiences. 

• Measure Impact & Improve – Use data and feedback to refine the platform, ensuring it effectively supports students, educators, and employers. 
   

Our ultimate goal is to create a strong, sustainable system that not only supports student success but also builds a more skilled and prepared workforce for Rhode Island’s future.