The Port of Morrow, in partnership with regional industries, has launched the new Columbia Works Summer Internship Program. Columbia Works is an industry-led, summer work experience program featuring paid internships, free professional development training, and application assistance. Prospective interns can choose from a diverse set of opportunities that range from farming, food processing, education, business, information technology, workforce development, and more.
Columbia Works was established to link regional employers with high school and college students who are looking to gain experience in their prospective career field.
“We believe Columbia Works is a great resource to get students the real-world experience and exposure to our industry and to see the potential career path they can have,” says Kirk Jacobson, Beef Northwest human resources manager and Columbia Works steering committee member.
Columbia Works is part of the Oregon Works network that has seen success in different regions across the state. Initially designed by the McMinville Economic Development Partnership, the model has been adapted to fit Morrow County business needs.
“Our goal is to make connections,” explains Kalie Davis, workforce training manager at the Port of Morrow. “We want to make things as easy as possible for both our industry partners and young adults looking for internship opportunities.”
Columbia Works is promoting 58 internship opportunities from nine employers in its inaugural year. The positions are listed online at www.columbiaworks.org. The application period is open through April 1, 2020.
“We are very fortunate to have forward-thinking businesses,” Davis shares. “By providing these internship opportunities we are building relationships with young professionals who we hope will eventually make Morrow County their home.”
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About Columbia Works: The Columbia Works Program is a collaboration between Morrow County businesses, Morrow County Chambers of Commerce, and the Port of Morrow to grow and promote summer internship opportunities.
Contact: Kalie Davis
Office: 541-481-7678