The second year of the Velocity Summer Internship Program concluded this past Friday with a reception for the participant students.
For the past 10 weeks these students had the opportunity to work with local Vista companies to explore their career aspirations. At the reception the students shared their experiences and met with local officials including VUSD Superintendent Dr. Matt Doyle, Councilmember Katie Melendez, and Vista City Manager John Conley.
The Velocity Internship Program offered by the Vista Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic initiative designed to provide students with real-world work experience and valuable skills. Through this program, students are connected with local businesses in the Vista area, offering them the opportunity to gain hands-on knowledge, expand their professional network, and contribute to the growth of the community. The program aims to bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical application, fostering personal and professional development for both interns and the businesses they collaborate with. This summer, 50 students participated in paid internship opportunities with 22 businesses, non-profits and organizations. The program was funded by a grant from the City of Vista and in partnership with the Vista Unified School District.
The Velocity Internship Program was launched in 2022 and was born from Vista Chamber CEO Rachel Beld’s experience as a teen. She turned down an unpaid summer internship opportunity in lieu of a paid summer job. That missed opportunity gave her the idea to create a program that provides paid experiences for students yet has low or no cost for employers. The program is seeking additional funding and support for 2024. Contact ceo@vistachamber.org for inquiries.
