Connecting teens to a successful future, the Richardson Mayor’s Summer Internship Program is accepting student applications now through Wednesday, March 22. In its sixth year, the program immerses current high school juniors who attend Richardson ISD or live in Richardson into the professional workplace with paid internships at sought-after businesses, nonprofits and government agencies. The program, which runs June 5-Aug. 4, is presented by Mayor Paul Voelker and the City of Richardson, Richardson ISD and the Richardson Chamber of Commerce. Businesses are also being recruited to provide internships; the deadline is April 13.

“The Richardson Mayor’s Summer Internship Program is an incredible opportunity for students to connect with some of the area’s most esteemed organizations and pick up invaluable skills – from the art of communicating and teamwork to technical skills, office etiquette and more,” said Mayor Voelker. “These on-the-job experiences will carry these up-and-comers as they begin their college and career journeys, giving them the know-how and confidence to achieve their dreams.”

The program will offer part-time and full-time paid internships in a variety of fields such as technology, manufacturing, communications, professional services, architecture, construction, education, engineering, philanthropy and more. With hours ranging from 12-40 hours per week, interns will earn a minimum of $12 per hour.

“Richardson ISD values the essential outside-the-classroom learning experiences that this summer internship program offers, especially those that will help prepare these rising seniors for life after graduation,” said Superintendent Tabitha Branum. “We look forward to offering this program for a sixth year to help support the goals of our recently adopted graduate profile, which includes the opportunity for students to make real-world connections.”

Interns will learn crucial soft skills – such as communications and corporate protocols in the office, teamwork, technical skills and adaptability – while businesses and nonprofits benefit by connecting with the future workforce. Students will benefit from an expanded and sophisticated perspective, broader capabilities, important relationships and a crucial jumpstart as they prepare for their future.

Depending on the internship, students might get to see the day-to-day operations of a major corporation, network with various departments, help coordinate events, create social media content, manage projects and much more.

“This is a unique and tangible way for the business community to connect with its future workforce,” said Kim Quirk, president and CEO, Richardson Chamber of Commerce. “We are proud to support Mayor Voelker, Richardson ISD and the Richardson Mayor’s Summer Internship Program as we strive to lift up our youth. We are always impressed with the caliber of students and look forward to bringing new interns on board this summer.”

In addition to hosting students at their workplace, businesses can sponsor an intern(s) at a participating nonprofit, where students can learn about the important role nonprofits play in the health of a community.

The deadline for students to apply is March 22. The program is open to current high school juniors who attend Richardson ISD or live in the City of Richardson; have at least a 2.5 cumulative GPA (80%); are 16 years of age by June 1, 2023; and are eligible to work in the U.S. In addition, students are required to attend one of two workforce skills training days on the morning of Saturday, March 25, or Tuesday, March 28, as well as the job fair on Wednesday, May 3, at the Eisemann Center. (If hired, interns must attend two days of intern workplace skills training on June 1-2 at the Richardson ISD Professional Development Center.) In addition, a celebration luncheon will be held Monday, July 31.

To apply and learn more, go to RichardsonMayorsInternships.org. Businesses can sign up now through April 13. For questions, please email info@richardsonmayorsinternships.org.