Meet Zahir Rodriguez
At the beginning of the 2025–2026 school year, Zahir was given an opportunity that would ultimately help shape his next step after high school: an interview with Allensworth Heating and Cooling for a long-term work-based learning experience in HVAC and carpentry.
After a successful interview, Zahir began spending four days each week at local worksites, where he gained hands-on experience, learned directly from industry professionals, and developed skills in a real-world work environment.
What started as an opportunity to explore a career soon became a pathway to employment. When a change in Zahir’s school schedule allowed him to work full-time, Allensworth Heating and Cooling had already seen his potential, work ethic, and value firsthand and offered him a full-time position.
Zahir’s story shows the power of connecting students with employers early. Work-based learning gives students the opportunity to discover careers, build confidence, and develop skills beyond the classroom. At the same time, it gives Iowa businesses the opportunity to meet, mentor, and develop the talent that could become part of their future workforce.
For Zahir, one opportunity to experience the workforce became an opportunity to join it.
