Summer Jobs That Build Futures: Youth Learn Life Skills Beyond the Paycheck

Each weekday morning, James Simpson III leads a group of children aged 5 to 13 through an energetic workout session at the Brownsville Community Center. A rising junior at S.L. Jones Christian Academy, Simpson is not only enjoying his time but also working as part of the Escambia County Summer Youth Employment Program. At 17, he is one of 175 interns participating in this initiative, which offers valuable work experience to young people aged 16 to 24.

The program places interns across 59 county sites, ranging from Century to Pensacola Beach. This summer, nearly 200 interns have been hired, including 82 high school students and 59 college students. Simpson has seen personal growth since joining the program last year. He noted that while it was challenging to get the kids to listen initially, he now enjoys better engagement thanks to improved skills such as patience, initiative, and creativity in finding new games for them.

Another intern, Kayla Harmon, shares similar sentiments. A political science major at the University of Alabama, Harmon works in Commissioner Lumon May’s office. Her skillsets have expanded to include adaptability, effective communication, organization, and problem-solving. She credits the program with helping her think on her feet and opening her eyes to the significance of local government. Harmon plans to pursue a career as an attorney and is considering opportunities within Escambia County.

Commissioner May, who championed the program, highlighted its growth since 2017 when only 17 interns were hired. This year alone, over 1,700 applications were received. He views the initiative as a way to show young people that they don’t need advanced degrees to find meaningful employment in their community. Opportunities range from maintenance and engineering to human services, providing diverse paths for local talent to stay and thrive.

May emphasized the importance of paid internships, particularly for youth from low-income backgrounds. These positions not only offer learning experiences but also financial compensation. Additionally, programs like Block-by-Block equip participants with practical skills in HVAC, masonry, and construction—targeting underserved populations who may otherwise miss out on such training without mentorship or structured support.

Running for seven weeks from early June to July 18, the employment program pays interns between $13 to $15 per hour, with a maximum of 30 hours weekly. However, securing a spot requires navigating a rigorous screening and interview process. Myesha Mitchell, the county’s Safe Neighborhoods program manager and overseer of the employment initiative, explained that applicants are interviewed by a committee comprising six county staff members. Selected interns are then matched with departments based on their skills, interests, goals, and departmental needs.

Mitchell also stressed the value of financial literacy education during orientation, ensuring interns gain essential money management skills. For some, like 21-year-old Amari Young from Pensacola State College, the program has reshaped their career outlook. Working in the county’s human resources department, Young found unexpected opportunities to network and explore potential careers, something she previously thought rare for someone her age.

Since its inception, the program has led to full-time hires, with about 30 interns transitioning into permanent roles within the county workforce. The success stories underscore how the initiative serves as more than just a paycheck—it provides life-changing experiences and fosters a sense of community among the youth of Escambia County.