At the close of business last week, our staff walked out as together as we usually do on Fridays. This time, we said goodbye to one of our staff who is moving on to a new adventure and a great opportunity.
Daniel Deno came to us as an intern in January 2015. He worked two jobs and went to school full-time, but was always early for work and offered to work late when it was necessary. After he graduated from Kentucky Wesleyan College, we had a full-time opening which he was able to fill. He spent the last year learning and growing professionally until he was recruited for another position. We could not be more proud. He leaves understanding what our Chamber does for our members as well as Greater Owensboro. Daniel will make it. He and his generation will make Owensboro a better community.
It gives me pause to reflect on why internships, apprenticeships and mentoring are so important for students and for businesses small and large. Internships give young people a chance to connect to the community. They are able to network, to build relationships with professionals in their field of interest. Internships in Owensboro help the community retain talent.
Having young people around helps adults remember what it was like to be that age. Having college-aged interns has made me a much more patient parent (my teens would disagree; but it has). It is easy to forget the stress of being younger — we look back with nostalgia and forget how scary the future could be.
Young people in our workforce also help us get in touch with our younger markets. These young people are our customers today, but tomorrow they will be our primary market. It is important to understand what makes them tick, what services and products they will demand, and how we will carry our message to them.
If you are looking for an intern, post it on your social media account or call one of our local college’s career placement services. They have great kids just looking for a chance. These students have taken the step to reach out to get experience they need to be contributing members of our community and to our economy.
By Candance Brake President and CEO Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce