At TGR Learning Labs, we believe in more than just teaching students about careers—we want to give them the chance to experience them firsthand. That’s why we’re pioneering new Career-Connected Learning (CCL) models, bridging classroom learning with real-world applications. One of our most exciting innovations is our Studio Model, where students transition from learning foundational skills to applying them in authentic professional settings.
Our first pilot, the Media Studio, has already begun proving the power of this model. Students who previously took multimedia courses at the TGR Learning Lab can apply to join the Studio, where they function as an in-house student-led marketing and content team. From conceptualizing branding materials to executing real-world content production, these students are gaining hands-on experience that translates into future career opportunities.
Putting Skills to Work at The Genesis Invitational
A recent example of this model in action took place at The Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines, where our Media Studio students had an opportunity to produce content for a major sports event. Their work included:
- Branding & Content Creation: Students designed and produced microphone flags, stickers and pins that were used throughout the tournament.
- Live Event Coverage: A select group of students received media credentials and a behind-the-scenes job shadowing experience with professionals from CBS, the PGA TOUR, Golf Channel and other multimedia businesses.
- Student-Run Social Media Takeover: The team managed the TGR Learning Lab Anaheim’s social media for the day, documenting their experience in real time.
This immersive experience aligns with our three pillars of Career-Connected Learning:
- Learning about work while engaging in career exploration through guest speakers and industry experiences.
- Learning through work by applying skills in structured, project-based learning experiences.
- Learning At Work by participating in real-world work environments and executing projects with industry professionals.
The Sirius XM PGA TOUR Radio Show hosted live from the TGR Learning Lab Anaheim is another example of the Studio Model in action. Joining Brian Katrek, on air, students learned what it takes to set up a radio show, conduct interviews and engage an audience while also planning for technical logistics of sound, microphones and web connectivity.
“It gives them a real opportunity to see behind the scenes what a job is actually like,” said Katrek. “Anytime you can see who it is that is doing the job and what it takes to actually do the job… I think it really helps them make decisions if this is something they really want to do for a living.”
Expanding the Studio Model
Our Media Studio is just the beginning. We are already working on expanding Studio experiences into other industries, including:
- Engineering & Product Design Studios providing hands-on application of 3D printing, CAD design and prototyping.
- Business & Entrepreneurship Studios offering opportunities for students to develop and pitch business ideas with guidance from industry mentors.
- Healthcare & Biomedical Studios allowing students to work in labs on biotech experiments and simulations.
By integrating these studio-based experiences, we are reshaping career readiness education, ensuring that students don’t just learn about careers—they experience them in meaningful ways.
“I thought it [the radio show] was really fun because we got to record a live show talking to an audience,” said Samantha, a 9th grader and aspiring podcast host. “I love to talk, and I thought it was really cool that we got to see how behind the scenes we get those radio shows; it was really cool how we got to be a part of one.”
Partner With Us
We’re looking for corporate and industry partners who want to co-develop studios, provide mentorship and offer students real-world challenges. If you’re interested in engaging with the next generation of talent, reach out to our team to explore collaboration opportunities at [email protected].
