The Eastern Shore Chamber Foundation, in collaboration with Innovate Alabama, AIDT, and the Baldwin County School System, is proud to announce the launch of the Eastern Shore Bridge program. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between education and career by providing students with hands-on industry experience.
"The Eastern Shore Bridge program is a game-changer for both students and employers,” Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce Director of Workforce Development and Governmental Affairs Christopher Lugo said. “By providing paid, hands-on experience, we're creating direct pathways for young talent to enter the workforce with confidence and readiness. Employers gain access to a pipeline of skilled, motivated individuals, while students get the opportunity to build meaningful careers right here in our community. This is workforce development in action, and we're excited to see the impact it will have."
About the Bridge Program
The Bridge program offers paid internships designed to equip students with valuable skills and industry exposure, setting them apart as they enter the workforce. Key features of the program include:
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Earn While You Learn: Interns receive compensation at $15 per hour while gaining real-world experience.
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Explore High-Demand Careers: Opportunities are available in sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and small business.
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Exclusive Maritime Training: Participants can engage in complimentary welding and structural fitting classes at the AIDT Maritime Training Center, with paid incentives.
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Workplace Readiness Training: The program includes development of essential skills like resume-building, goal-setting, and professional communication prior to the internship.
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Personalized Mentorship: Interns receive weekly career guidance and feedback from industry professionals.
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Networking & Future Job Opportunities: Participants have the chance to build relationships with top employers actively seeking talent.
Benefits for Employers
The Bridge program also offers significant advantages for employers:
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Access Skilled, Motivated Interns: Connect with work-ready high school students trained in essential workplace skills.
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Develop Future Workforce Pipeline: Engage with potential future employees, reducing hiring and training costs.
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Enhance Community Presence: Showcase commitment to education, workforce development, and economic growth.
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Increase Productivity: Interns bring new energy, ideas, and skills to businesses, contributing to organizational success.
Important Dates
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April 11, 2025: Intern Registration Deadline
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June 1, 2025: Employer Registration Deadline
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August/September 2025: Internship Start Date
Contact Information
For more details or to participate in the Bridge program, please contact:
Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce Director of Workforce Development and Governmental Affairs Christopher Lugo.
Email: clugo@eschamber.com
Phone: 251-928-6387
Address: 327 Fairhope Ave., Fairhope, AL, 36532
Website: www.esbridgeprogram.com
