Finance Intern Joe Powanda starts his day in Procurement by running reports to help the specialists as well as preparing documents for site visits. He also has a hand in proofing contracts and assists with special projects.
Currently completing his associate degree at Pasco-Hernando State College, Joe wanted to gain knowledge and experience in the finance field, so he started an internship that would teach him more about finance and provide the necessary skills to succeed.
He found the position through the District’s LinkedIn page and started in Accounting & Financial Reporting and is now in Procurement.
“I really enjoy the people I get to work with every day,” said Joe. “Everyone is so nice and helpful and wants to see me succeed.”
The goals of the District’s Student Internship Program are to provide a pipeline of potential future employees and strengthen the District’s key career fields, such as mathematical sciences, computer technology, engineering and surveying, business, and natural, physical and life sciences. The District also strongly embraces STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.)
The District provides students with real work experience along with an appreciation of the District’s mission and culture. In the spring, Joe will transfer to the University of Florida in Gainesville where he will major in finance and complete his bachelor’s degree.
“The internship has provided transferrable skills that will be beneficial in the classroom,” said Joe.
The District offers both paid and unpaid internships to students 16 years of age and older. Both internship positions require students to be enrolled as a student in high school, community college, college or university or other recognized educational or vocational programs.
“We’ve been fortunate to have great interns this summer,” said Finance Bureau Chief Melisa Lowe. “Our goal is to provide an opportunity for interns to learn about the District and what we do, enhance their knowledge of the finance field as well as how the Finance Bureau helps the District achieve its mission.”
Visit WaterMatters.org/Careers to see what current intern positions are open.