Last week, Escambia County concluded another transformative cycle of its Summer Youth Employment Program, offering over 200 local youth invaluable work experience and career development opportunities. The program continues to serve as a bridge between education and employment, helping young people develop essential skills while contributing to their community.
Background: Through paid internships of up to 30 hours per week, participants gained hands-on experience across various county departments while learning crucial workplace fundamentals, including professional dress, punctuality, and respect. The program’s comprehensive approach ensures that youth develop both technical skills and professional etiquette.
“The goal of this program is to give young people an opportunity to learn the skill sets to be able to get jobs and to be employed,” District 3 Commissioner Lumon May said. “Through the Summer Youth Employment Program, we hope to expose them to opportunities and create an atmosphere where they would want to live, work and play right here in Escambia County.”
Diverse Learning Opportunities
Participants worked across an impressive range of departments, including Animal Welfare and Public Safety, Library Services, and Parks and Recreation. The program also extended beyond county government, with internships available through community partners including the City of Pensacola, Escambia County School District, and local businesses.
- County Administration intern Alexis Jackson highlighted the program’s practical benefits: “I’ve learned a lot about communicating, whether it’s communicating with patrons who come in and helping them get assisted, or helping them over the phone. I definitely feel like I’ve picked up some skills, and I’ve also just learned time management.”
The program’s impact extends beyond summer employment, as demonstrated by third-year participant Jayden Hudgins, who earned a full-time position as an Animal Welfare Coordinator. His journey illustrates the program’s potential for launching lasting careers.
- “I feel like it’s helped me in multiple ways, like my communication skills, how to talk to people, how to address people,” Hudgins shared. “Just how to be yourself and stay consistent in what you do.”
Looking Forward
The 2025 participants were recently celebrated at a recognition ceremony held at the Brownsville Community Center, where they were acknowledged for their dedication and growth throughout the summer. As Commissioner May noted, “I know that internship opportunities make a difference in the lives of children.”
Information about future program cycles will be available at MyEscambia.com/syep and on the Escambia County Facebook page, ensuring continued opportunities for local youth to build their futures while strengthening their community.
