Student interns and podcast hosts described a county summer internship supported by the Gear Up program and approved by the county Board of Supervisors.

A student intern said the program provided real-world experience, networking and improved public-speaking skills. "I've learned so much," an intern said, adding that the experience helped build connections across county offices and the old courthouse.

Another intern said they were "really grateful" that the Gear Up program and the board supported the internship; the intern also noted school-district involvement and thanked Superintendent Alfredo Velasquez, who the intern said is retiring.

Deputy County Manager and Finance Director Marissa Chavez and Assistant Finance Director Maria Martinez told hosts that county staff appreciate the program and noted the board's 100% support for funding the internship.

The interns described future plans: one will attend Northern Arizona University to study biomedical sciences and another plans to attend a community college for liberal arts and communications. Hosts said some interns may be offered longer-term placements pending further decisions.

The podcast hosts and county staff encouraged students to apply skills learned during the internship and noted the program is a collaboration among the county, the school district and Gear Up. The recording did not specify the grant amount or contract terms for the program.