Work experience internships help those who are under or unemployed

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KJCT) - The Work Experience Internship Program through the Mesa County Workforce Center (MCWFC) gives a helping hand to those struggling to find employment or gain reliable experience.

“We are trying to help individuals who maybe haven’t had that college experience or don’t have that experience in the workforce,” said Megan Fry, Supervisor of Career Development and GED Program at the MCWFC.

Fry said no matter the income status, education level, employment status, or demographic, everyone qualifies for these opportunities.

Over 15 employment types are available, including animal services, IT, marketing, construction, manufacturing, and early childhood education.

“Pretty much anything you can imagine if you can find a business that’s interested in hosting an intern, we can make it happen,” said Fry.

154 people enrolled in work experience in 2024. Around $1.3 million was put back into the community through clients and employers. Fry said job seekers and employers can benefit from the program.

“It’s advantageous for the intern because they do get that experience and recent relevant work history to put on their resume. They have opportunities to network and they’re getting paid. For our employers, it’s a great opportunity to train up the workforce center and really help the workforce, develop those skills that they’re looking for,” she said.

According to Fry, over 75% of participants who go through these programs make their way into the industry they trained for.

“We have an amazing team, and they are all dedicated to helping our participants achieve success. That is why we’re here every day, to make it easier for them to enter the workforce,” she said.

According to Mesa County, the only requirement for employers and job seekers is to register with Connecting Colorado.

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