YOUTH PROGRAMS

NEW BABY AND CAREER FOR INTERN IN GAINESVILLE
By Denishia Robinson, Agency for Workforce Innovation

Being part of the team that developed the only carbon footprint of waste water activities for a county was just one of many opportunities Alexandria Taylor had while working at International Carbon Bank and Exchange (ICBE) this summer. Alexandria was one of eight interns to work for ICBE, gaining valuable experience through the Agency for Workforce Innovation, Workforce Florida Inc. and FloridaWorks’ 2009 Summer Youth Program.

 

The program, funded with $43 million in stimulus funds, employed approximately 15,000 teens and young adults from ages 14-24 in partnership with Regional Workforce Boards throughout the state. During the experience, participants like Alexandria worked for Florida companies and were compensated by their local workforce board, all while learning “real world” workplace skills and making great business contacts.

 

“The employers joined in the community initiative to lower our dropout rates, engage our future workforce and improve our local talent base. Our area is blessed to have so many concerned and generous business owners who work together in their efforts to better our region,” said Angela Pate, Executive Director of FloridaWorks.

 

Alexandria’s duties included working on reports that she later presented at the FloridaWorks board meeting, calculating carbon footprints and conducting research to find the waste water and energy levels of Gainesville landmarks like City Hall and Public Works.

 

But Alexandria’s experience this summer had its challenges. Alexandria was pregnant while participating in the program. Near the end of the program, she gave birth to a baby girl. Alexandria’s dedication compelled her to return to class the following week, completing the program and securing a future position with ICBE.

 

Alexandria’s manager, Seth, has also learned from her and other interns’ perseverance. He noted that some of his students got up at 5 a.m. each day, rode buses to work and continuously made it on time. Others even worked full-time jobs after their sessions at ICBE ended for the day. Seth admitted that his interns changed his perspective of young adults. The interns he taught voluntarily enrolled in the course and sought out the knowledge needed for future career success. When asked if there was anything he would like to share, Seth applauded FloridaWorks for exposing young adults to a variety of career options and putting stimulus funds to work in the community.

 

Through the Summer Youth Program, at least 238 participants have secured permanent positions. Success stories like Alexandria’s exemplify the importance of empowering young Floridians with tools to succeed in the corporate world.