From staff reports The Duncan Area Economic Development Foundation is marking its ninth year of working with Duncan Public Schools on the high school internship program Pathways to Future Careers. The program gives upperclassmen hands-on experience in local industries while preparing them for the future.
This year, more than 50 students are enrolled in the program. Before beginning their internships, students attended a one-day classroom session that covered résumé writing and interview skills, led by program facilitator Lyle Roggow.
The Pathways to Future Careers program plays a key role in helping students explore career options and gain valuable workplace skills while giving them a clearer picture of how their future jobs might look and the education or training needed to achieve their goals.
Students discover career paths they might not have known about otherwise and build professional networks through direct contact with local businesses.
“This allows students an opportunity to find occupations that they are passionate about and will enjoy going to work for every day,” said Roggow, president of DAEDF.
By creating this pipeline of skilled workers ready to join the local workforce, the program also supports Duncan’s economic growth. Local businesses benefit by connecting early with potential future employees and by helping shape a workforce trained in the skills their industries need. The partnership bridges gaps between education and business needs, strengthening both.
“Our local companies realize that some of their best future employees are currently in Duncan’s schools,” said Duncan Public Schools Superintendent Tom Deighan. “This program helps businesses help students, and students help businesses.”
Beyond hands-on experience, internships contribute to workforce development goals by increasing job readiness and encouraging more students to pursue higher education or specialized training. Studies show that high school internships can boost long-term earnings, improve work habits and increase employment rates among youth.