CTA surpasses internship goals with nearly 300 participants in 1 Summer Chicago program

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Board convened on July 9, 2025, to discuss various initiatives, with a significant focus on the successful launch of the 1 Summer Chicago internship program. This year, the program has reached a record participation level, onboarding 298 interns, surpassing the initial goal of 250.

Kim Robinson, the Vice President of Training and Workforce Development, presented an overview of the internship program, which has been extended to seven weeks, providing high school students with meaningful work experiences. Interns work five days a week for 25 hours, with a starting salary that recently increased from $16.20 to $16.60 per hour.

The program emphasizes professional development, mentorship, and community engagement. Interns participate in various activities, including workshops on resume writing and personal branding, as well as community service projects. This year’s theme, "Navigating Your Future," aims to guide interns in achieving their career aspirations.

Robinson highlighted the program's structure, likening it to a rail system with different lines representing various pathways: workforce orientation, career pathways, professional development, higher education, wellness, and financial literacy. Partnerships with organizations like Accenture and the Economic Awareness Council enhance the program's offerings, providing interns with valuable resources and experiences.

The meeting also showcased the interns' excitement as they received their first paychecks, marking a milestone in their professional journey. The CTA's commitment to youth engagement and mentorship was evident, with Robinson expressing pride in the collaborative efforts of the CTA staff and external partners to create a meaningful experience for the interns.

Overall, the meeting underscored the CTA's dedication to fostering the next generation of transit professionals through innovative programs and community involvement. The board's discussions reflected a strong commitment to enhancing workforce development initiatives in Chicago.