This summer, Evanston Township High School (ETHS), the City of Evanston Youth and Young Adult Division, Evanston Community Foundation, and the Mayor’s Employer Advisory Council (MEAC) launched the iKit Summer Internship Program. Fifteen Class of 2020 graduates interned with nine Evanston Employers in a broad range of career pathways. Ten of the interns persisted with two accepting positions with their employers and eight coming away with internship certificates. The five who did not persist are working with Evanston Youth Job Center counselors to help them move ahead with their post-secondary options.
The employers, Evanston Township High School administrators, and students were enthusiastic about the results of the program. Several employers have already indicated they want to participate next summer. MEAC is currently refining the model to employ what was learned to make this an even better program for next summer. They are also working to secure funding for the program.
MEAC and ETHS have announced the career pathway panel schedule for the 2020-21 school year. Seven virtual panel discussions are scheduled on the school calendar covering the following career pathways:
- Manufacturing, Engineering, Trades
- Military, Human and Public Safety (Military Visit Day)
- Information and Technology/Cyber Security
- Finance and Business Services
- Health & Science
- Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources
- Arts & Communication
Each pathway panel discussion is from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Representatives from four employers and Oakton Community College will participate. The Oakton Community College representatives will promote dual credit courses at ETHS, Certificates of Completion for non-degree career-track course packages, and application information. The partners are hoping to attract not only students but parents, counselors, and teachers to the sessions.
