High school students across the Baton Rouge area could get a real start on their future careers this summer through CareerBridge, a youth internship program led by the Greater Baton Rouge Economic Partnership.
Maggie Spurlock said the program helps students step into professional work settings while they are still in school. Many of those students already train in career pathways and earn credentials before they ever start an internship.
Some students enter the program with hands-on experience in fields like welding, phlebotomy, construction management and EMS. CareerBridge aims to place them in jobs that match those skills and give them a strong first step into the workforce.
Spurlock said paid internships matter. Students not only gain work experience, but they also learn how to manage money, open bank accounts and build savings. In some homes, that summer income can make a real difference.
She also said employers need to treat these internships like real jobs. That means creating a clear job description, assigning a mentor and helping students build soft skills like communication, confidence and professionalism.
CareerBridge serves businesses and students across the nine-parish Capital Region. The program welcomes many industries and encourages employers to get involved before summer placements wrap up in mid-May.
Businesses that want to host a student or help support the program can learn more at greaterbatonrouge.org/careerbridge or by emailing talent@greaterbr.org.