School to Work

 

Vacant, Human Resources Manager

 

Department of Public Works and Engineering's School-To-Work Program

 

JoAnne Perry, Coordinator

Phone: 832.395.2804

 

Welcome to the School-To-Work (STW) Program link! We want to thank you for your interest in learning more about this unique program. Since 1992, the Department of Public Works and Engineering has been offering the STW program to college students and has had over 600 participants.

 

 

 

 

Public Works and Engineering (PWE) is one of the largest departments in the city of Houston. PWE is responsible for providing many of the basic services that affect the daily lives of everyone who lives and works in Houston. Things we take for granted -- pure drinking water, environmentally safe sewers, well-paved streets and efficient intersections are included in the responsibilities of Public Works and Engineering. PWE is on the forefront of innovation and technology, which enables it to provide interns with challenging and enriching projects.

 

 

 

 

 

The STW program offers college students an opportunity to gain practical work experience in their field of study. Students are exposed to valuable learning experiences such as working in a professional workplace and assisting with projects that are vital to the success of the department. The STW program offers positions to students majoring in Accounting, Computer Science, MIS, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Finance, Business and Public Administration.

 

As a requirement of the internship program, students are to choose a specific topic to research and present. Click here for examples of research papers that were presented during past semesters.

 

 

 

SCHOOL-TO-WORK PROGRAM FAQ

 

 

What is the School-To-Work program?

 

The School-To-Work program offers full-time paid internships to qualified college students during the summer, spring and fall semesters. Students are placed in various positions throughout the department according to their field of study. Interns are able to work on projects that will give them practical on-the-job experience.

 

Who is qualified to participate?

 

Qualified candidates are college students who have completed at least 32 credit hours and have a minimum 2.5 GPA.

 

How much does the internship pay?

 

The salary ranges from $880 - $960 bi-weekly and is dependent on the student's classification.

 

What are the program requirements?

 

All students who participate are required to:

 

• Prepare a 7 - 10 page research paper and PowerPoint presentation on assigned project.
• Attend a weekly Toastmasters meeting to develop public speaking skills.
• Attend tours of various Public Works facilities to gain a better understanding of the department's function.

 

When is the selection process?

 

 

 

Are there opportunities for interns to get a permanent position with the city?

 

While we cannot guarantee that a student will be offered a permanent position, we do encourage students to review and apply for job openings. We have had several interns in past semesters that have secured a permanent position as a result of their internship.

 

How would an interested student apply?

 

All interested students should e-mail a copy of their cover letter and resume to (indicate desired semester): (832)395-2804 or by e-mail at stwprogram@houstontx.gov