Wayne County Recognizes 2026 Summer Youth Employment Program Participants
Wayne County wrapped up its 2026 Summer Youth Employment Program, recognizing 40 local high school and college students who spent the summer working in County government.
More than 100 young people applied for the 40 spots this year, the largest applicant pool in the program's history. The six-week program placed students in paid positions across 20 County departments and offices, including 911 Communications, Animal Shelter, Board of Elections, Cooperative Extension, Day Reporting Center, Emergency Medical Services, Environmental Health, Facilities, Human Resources, Inspections, Information Technology, Wayne Executive Jetport, Public Library, The Maxwell Center, Planning, Register of Deeds, Sheriff's Office, Soil & Water Conservation, Services on Aging, and Tax Office.
Now in its fifth year, the program gives participants a chance to build job skills, try out careers, and see how local government works from the inside.
"I knew I would gain work experience and learn about the local government, but I did not realize how much I would learn about the people who keep our community running. One of the biggest lessons I have learned this summer is that nothing great happens because of just one person," said Sarah, a program participant.
Students between the ages of 16 and 21 applied and interviewed for a spot, then were placed in departments based on their interests and skills. Over the summer, they worked alongside County staff and took part in tours of other departments and local employers.
"These experiences have given me a new appreciation for the people who work hard every day to make a difference in the lives of others. Throughout this program I learned that no matter who you are or what you're doing, success requires humility, patience and a willingness to learn from others," said Alani, a program participant.
The Wayne County Board of Commissioners launched the Summer Youth Employment Program in 2022 to give young people real work experience and a look at careers in public service. Five years in, it's become one of the County's main ways of investing in its future workforce.
"Each year I continue to learn different things about Wayne County. I am very grateful for another opportunity in which I get to learn and gain experience and prepare for my future," said Stephanie, a program participant.
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