Mayor's Youth Employment Program: Opening Young Minds to New Careers

Published on August 21, 2024

Sharvil D., a senior at Providence High School, spent his summer interning with American Airlines as part of the city of Charlotte’s Mayor’s Youth Employment Program (MYEP).  From catering and baggage handling to operations on the tarmac and in the command center, his role allowed him to explore different aspects of the airline industry.

Sharvil found the internship especially useful for improving his communication skills to enhance the customer experience. Through this experience, Sharvil realized how valuable this program is to help him refine his career goals. "Even if you do not like what you are doing, it will help you figure out what you don't want to do, which is equally important," he said.

Sharvil (left) poses with Ryker Thompson (middle) in front of the American Airlines logo.

Ryker Thompson, Manager of CLT Planning & Administration at American Airlines (Sharvil's host employer), noted the many opportunities available at the company. Charlotte is the second largest hub for American Airlines, offering diverse career paths for its 15,000 team members. 

"It's a great opportunity for a local high school student to see what exists locally in Charlotte," Thompson said. "Being a pilot or flight attendant, the traditional job you think of working at an airline, but we also have opportunities in operations, maintenance, and planning."

MYEP offered more than 450 paid work-based learning opportunities for high school students, like Sharvil, this summer. Importantly, internships like this offer hands-on experience, introducing students to new careers and giving them practical experience in areas in which they are interested. The exposure students gain during MYEP helps them discover their career interests and allows them to explore traditional and unconventional roles early on.

Dylan interned with the Charlotte Fire Department over the summer as part of MYEP.

For instance, Dylan B., a rising senior at Butler High School, worked with the Charlotte Fire Department and rotated through various positions over his eight-week work experience. He worked in fire prevention, communications, fire education, and logistics. Notably, in logistics, Dylan was responsible for ensuring that firehouses were well-equipped and operational. His tasks included prepping gear, sharpening chains for chainsaws, organizing uniforms, and more. This role highlighted the diverse skills required for effective emergency management, extending beyond just firefighting.

Other students participated in an Industry Day, in the Carolina's Simulation Center at Atrium Health. 

Jennifer Noble, a simulations manager, emphasized the importance of exploring lesser-known but rewarding healthcare careers. She said, "There are so many degrees out there that you can get quickly and already start making a really good career for yourself that everyone may not know. It doesn't have to be eight years of med school from the very beginning." 

Students learned about various healthcare roles beyond doctors and nurses, including insights into different schedules, future college courses, critical emergency decision-making, work-life balance, and making informed career choices.

Jennifer expressed the importance of recognizing and acknowledging the contributions of non-traditional roles in healthcare underscoring the significance of recognizing and valuing these contributions.

MYEP students gather at CPCC for the 2024 Closing Ceremony.

The Mayor's Youth Employment Program continues to make a significant impact by helping students gain valuable work experience and explore various career options. This year’s season closed on August 6, celebrating host employers and students’ experiences. 

Whether it was Sharvil's dive into the aviation industry or Dylan's exploration of fire department operations, MYEP plays a vital role in shaping future careers. By offering students the chance to engage with both traditional and non-traditional roles, MYEP not only helps them clarify their career aspirations but also broadens their horizons to the many opportunities available in their own community.

Learn more about MYEP on our Youth Programs page. To view more photos from the MYEP Closing Ceremony, click here.