Ten students from Jackson Public Schools are now gaining invaluable experience as interns at Nissan North America in Canton, MS, thanks to a groundbreaking partnership.
In a concerted effort to bridge the gap between education and employment, Nissan, Jackson Public School (JPS), and Central Mississippi Planning and Development District (CMPDD) have united to establish an impactful internship program. This collaborative endeavor aims to equip high school students with the skills and experience necessary to excel in the automotive industry while providing them with a clear pathway to a prosperous career.
Identified by JPS counselors and career coaches, seniors demonstrating a keen interest in the advanced manufacturing profession were presented with internship opportunities by Nissan, culminating in the selection of 10 students for the program.
The selected students and their parents participated in an evening onboarding session, where they completed essential paperwork and received a comprehensive overview of internship expectations from Nissan. Supported by JPS counselors and career coaches, this event facilitated parental engagement and addressed any inquiries. To accommodate the internship, student schedules were adjusted, ensuring that all high school courses were scheduled for A Days, with B Days reserved for the internship.
This partnership thrived on synergy, with each partner contributing valuable resources. Thanks to funding from Accelerate Mississippi, CMPDD covered internship wages at $17.50 per hour and provided worker’s compensation insurance for the interns. Nissan offered job site assignments, onsite supervision, work attire, and tools, while JPS organized transportation to and from the Nissan plant for the interns.
“This partnership exemplifies the commitment of our community to provide meaningful opportunities for our youth, ensuring they have the skills and resources needed to succeed in the workforce,” says Robin Parker, Workforce Director at CMPDD.
Upon completing the internship, students have a myriad of options available. They can embark on full-time employment at the Nissan plant, earning a wage of $22.50 per hour, or pursue a scholarship opportunity for related training at Hinds or Holmes Community College. Additionally, students can opt to blend work at Nissan with ongoing college education, with Nissan offering onsite programs for employees and accommodating work schedules to facilitate concurrent college attendance.
This partnership serves as a testament to the power of collaboration between industry, education, and the workforce area. By investing in the development of the next generation of skilled workers, Nissan, JPS, and CMPDD are not only shaping the future of the advanced manufacturing industry but also empowering students to realize their full potential.
