For the last four years, Post Consumer Brands in Jonesboro, Ark. has partnered with the Jonesboro High School STEM Academy to foster the growth of local STEM students by offering internships at the company. STEM is an interdisciplinary academic curriculum covering science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
The STEM Academy prepares students for the workforce with real-world work experience. “This program allows students to apply the concepts they learn in class in the workplace,” said Dan Mullins, lead teacher at the STEM Academy. “To produce the goods and services that many of us take for granted.” The STEM Academy also partners with other local manufacturers on similar programs.
Learning on-the-job
During the internship, students attend classes most of the week while spending one or two days in the workplace. This allows them to gain work experience without having to pause their schoolwork.
Additionally, according to plant manager John Kompa, students are encouraged to network with current employees and the leadership if they are interested in growing into a future role at Post.
Building local careers
One goal of the program is to expose students to opportunities in their communities. By participating in these internships, Dan Mullins hopes students will become aware of, and consider pursuing, local careers.
“It’s great to see students gain a better understanding of food production,” said Mullins. “We hope that by showing this work environment to them, they will choose to pursue a degree that leads to a stable, well-paying job here in Jonesboro.”
This partnership is part of Post Consumer Brands’ broader commitment to empower people. Post empowers employees by providing educational opportunities and resources for success.
Jonesboro STEM Academy student, Andrew Kueter (left), spent the day at Post Consumer Brands with plant manager John Kompa (right).