Harrison Diniega of West Ranch (right) did an engineering internship at Boston Scientific.

The Hart School District Regional Occupational Program  debuted the new Career Internship class to interested juniors and seniors throughout the district this summer. Twenty local businesses opened their doors and offered students the opportunity to learn about a variety of industries while providing hands-on training during their internship experience.

The course prepared students for the work environment with six hours of training in job seeking skills. Topics included marketing YOU for success, business etiquette, resume and applications, mock interviews, dress for success, and student digital portfolio. Students then attended a class once a week while interning four to 12 hours a week at their internship site in their area of interest. “This is a wonderful opportunity for students to experience working in their career field,” Summer O’Brien, ROP teacher, said. “These students have so much passion and dedication to their future.”

Companies that participated in the business partner program include; Aerospace Dynamics International, American Family Funding, AMS Fulfillment, Advanced Bionics, Boston Scientific, Bowling & Associates, Bright Star Physical Therapy, Circle of Hope, Hart District Transportation, High Pressure Technologies, Hot Spot SCV, H2W, G & M Auto Repair, Int’l Tax Network, La Quinta Hotel, Michael Hoefflin Foundation, Magazine of Santa Clarira, Specialty Motors, TPC – Oaks Grille, UVDI, 20/20 Optometric Eye care.

Kelly Indermill of Hart (left) interned in journalism at the Magazine of Santa Clarita.

“The district would like to see this program grow, and to accomplish that goal we need more business partners to accept student interns,” Dave LeBarron, director of curriculum and assessment, said. “We need a variety of businesses, including large and small in a variety of industries so students may gain a clearer understanding of a chosen career path.”

Venkat Katakam, a senior at Valencia High School, spent his internship at UVDI. “I’ve had a great experience at my internship at UVDI. The company has given me hands on training by allowing me to create brochures and flyers of their products. My expectation was to just get a feeling of business-related material, but I learned a lot about sales and marketing. It was a valuable experience and I am thankful for everything UVDI and this class has done for me,” Venkat said.

Venkat worked closely with Kathi Million, director of sales and marketing. “Having Venkat intern with UVDI this summer has been a great experience for all. He was very instrumental in assisting us with various marketing materials. I believe he learned quite a bit about UVC Technology and working in a corporate environment. It has been a pleasure to assist in molding our next generation,” Million said.

Johnny Domingo, a Saugus High School junior, learned from his internship at the Michael Hoefflin Foundation. Gillian Stone, executive director, complemented Johnny on his work ethic. “Thank you so much for sending Johnny to us,” Stone said. “His smile lights up our office. He is quick to learn, takes direction well and doesn’t make mistakes. He has been an added pleasure to have here this summer.”

Interns, Chris McGraw, Hart High School; Harrison Diniega, West Ranch High School and Eva Malis, West Ranch High School were able to spend their time interning at Boston Scientific where they continued their passion for engineering. Lynn Secrest, human resources director at Boston Scientific says, “This is our first time working with high school students in our internship program. We are very impressed with these bright and professional students. It has been a positive experience for all.”

Griffin Hartz of West Ranch (left) honed his automotive technology skills with Hart District Transportation.

Jamie Corr, Hart High School senior, tested and worked alongside Szilard Gyalay, engineer and manager of the software testing of the cochlear implant at Advanced Bionics. “Interning at Advanced Bionics as a software test engineer was an unforgettable experience,” Corr said. “I am so grateful for the opportunity to work on the latest technology and contribute to the life-changing moments that occur when a deaf person hears for the first time.”

Daniel Otto, executive chef at The Oaks Grill at Tournament Players Club (TPC) Valencia, worked with Chase Ponce, West Ranch High School senior, to sharpen his culinary skills during his internship. “Chase works hard and gives it his all, his dedication and passion will get him far in this business, it has been a pleasure having him on our team,” Chef Otto said. “I want to become an executive chef and I will continue to work hard and take the necessary steps to make this happen,” Ponce said.

Involved businesses have the opportunity to work with students seeking information on career choices. High school students are the future workers in this community and business leaders can open the door to potential future employees and to help provide and mentor these students toward the skills required to be successful in the 21st century.

For more information about enrolling in this class or to become a business partner for the fall semester contact Pam Malowe at the district office. 661-259-0033 x232.