<![CDATA[This study examines the collaboration strategies between schools and industry in improving students’ competencies at SMK Negeri Palang. The urgency of this research arises from the demands of the business and industrial sectors for vocational school graduates who are competent, possess strong character, and are work-ready. The aim of the study is to describe the planning, implementation, and evaluation of school–industry collaboration and its impact on improving students’ competencies. This research employed a qualitative approach with a case study design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation involving the principal, vice principals, head of department, productive subject teachers, industry partners (Astra Motor, Mitsubishi, and Infinity Garage), administrative staff, and students. Data analysis was conducted using the Miles and Huberman model. The results show that collaboration was planned through curriculum synchronization, mapping of industry-required competencies, and the formulation of internship programs. The implementation of collaboration included teaching factory activities, industrial work practices, industrial visits, guest instructors, and the upgrading of facilities in accordance with industry standards. Evaluation was carried out through coordination meetings, tracer studies, and competency assessments. This collaboration improved students’ hard skills, soft skills, discipline, work ethic, and graduate employability, reaching an absorption rate of up to 95% in 2025. The study concludes that systematic and sustainable collaboration is effective in promoting the development of a school–industry model at SMK Negeri Palang.]]>
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