Celebrating a Successful Third Summer of Internship Programs
This summer marked the third year of the Southwest Minnesota Private Industry Council’s (PIC) internship programs, connecting college students with hands-on career experiences across Murray, Nobles, and Swift Counties. These programs are made possible through partnerships with County Commissioners and local host sites, offering students the chance to explore careers, develop professional skills, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Interns are paid $17 per hour and work up to 29 hours per week during the summer.
The Nobles County Internship Program began in 2023, inspired by a successful initiative in neighboring Martin County. Former Commissioner Don Linssen brought the idea to County Administrator Bruce Heitkamp, and with support from the Southwest Minnesota Private Industry Council (PIC), 12 college students gained hands-on experience with local businesses that first summer. The program continued in 2024, strengthening connections between students and employers.
Inspired by Nobles County’s success, Murray County launched its program in 2024. Commissioner Dave Thiner championed the idea, 7 students completed internships in its first year. The program grew in 2025, placing 8 students in valuable work experiences, and plans are underway to continue in 2026.
Swift County developed its summer internship program to connect students with career opportunities close to home. Commissioner Larry Mahoney introduced the idea, support from SWMNPIC, students began earning up to $17 per hour while gaining hands-on experience. The program matches students with employers aligned to their career goals, helping them explore life after graduation while strengthening community ties.
This summer, these internships not only provide students with valuable professional experience but also support local employers in achieving their goals. Host sites across the region consistently praise the contributions of interns, noting their enthusiasm, adaptability, and positive impact on the workplace.
The Southwest Minnesota Private Industry Council and county partners look forward to expanding the programs in 2026, continuing to bridge the gap between education and career readiness while strengthening the communities of Southwest Minnesota.
A special thank you to the county commissioners for partnering with us and to all the host sites for welcoming and mentoring our interns. To learn more about the program or if you are interested in participating, please visit https://www.swmnpic.org/career-services/summer-internship-program/
Nobles County
Host Sites:
- Nobles County Attorney’s Office – Ana, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (Business Law)
- Forward Worthington – Taya, Southwest Minnesota State University (Business Management/Supply Chain); Jonathan, Hamline University (Business & Marketing)
- Nobles County Historical Society – Owen, University of South Dakota (Business/History)
- Prairie Rehabilitation & Fitness – Ivania, Gustavus Adolphus College (Biology/History, Pre-OT)
- Sanford Rehab – Hiltyn, South Dakota State University (Exercise Science)
- Minnesota West Community & Technical College – Taylor, Southwest Minnesota State University (Business Administration)
- Bedford Industries – Jose C.
- Henning Electric – Jose S.
- Worthington Tax and Business Services – Lance
Owen is gaining hands-on experience at the Nobles County Historical Society: “This internship has been very helpful in providing real-world work experience and allowing me to build practical, hands-on skills.”
At Forward Worthington, Taya said, “I’ve really enjoyed this internship… it’s helped me grow and made me even more excited for what’s ahead,” while Jonathan Banegas got a unique experience helping run the local farmers market. Jamie Salinas from Forward added, “Both have been respectful, hardworking, and outgoing… this program is important for our young people to get a taste of what it’s like working in the real world.”
Download the 2025 Nobles County Internship Packet Here to learn more about the interns and host sites.
Murray County
Host Sites:
- Murray County Medical Center - Jasmine, Dakota State University (Cyber Operations); Annaka, Dordt University (Business Administration/Marketing); Abbigale, University of South Dakota (Nursing); Christian, University of South Dakota (Biology/Human Dynamics)
- Slayton Police Department - Abby, South Dakota State University (Criminology)
- Nobles Cooperative Electric - Dillon, South Dakota State University (Business Economics and Land Valuation & Rural Real Estate)
- Investors Choice Financial Services - Samantha (Business Management)
- Solid Rock Church - Simon, Asbury University (Bible Theology)
Jasmine gained hands-on cybersecurity experience, with Justin Keller noting, “Jasmine has been a go-getter and relieved a lot of pressure on our staff… hopefully she found it to be a rewarding experience as well!”
Christian, an aspiring physical therapist, shared, “This internship is great because it helps me connect with people in my community, which I find special.” Mark Boerboom, PT, echoed the value of hosting interns, saying, “I feel this program is beneficial for all involved as it creates a good learning experience for the young healthcare student, and also provides an opportunity for small hospitals to establish relationships with future medical professionals.”
Abby, interning with the Slayton Police Department, reflected on her hands-on law enforcement experience: “I’ve been able to learn new things about town, drive around town and help with ordinances, learn about the squad cars, learned about how to give out citations to citizens.”
Download the 2025 Murray County Internship Packet Here to learn more about the interns and host sites.
Swift County
Host Sites:
- Appleton Area Health – Ella (Laboratory Intern); Jordan (Clinic Intern)
- Ambient Chiropractic – Lauren, University of South Dakota (Kinesiology & Sports Management)
- BackStreet Printing – Amanda (Graphic Design/Photography)
Saige Ochsendorf, HR Manager at Appleton Area Health, reflected, “It has been great getting to partner with Swift County for the summer internship program. Our partnership exposes future healthcare professionals to the ins and outs of rural healthcare, giving them valuable learning experiences.”
Lauren shared, “The opportunity that Swift County Internship program has given has been a great way for me to learn about a future career and has been helpful for our office to fill a summer staffing need!”
Lisa Pastian, Laboratory Manager at Appleton Area Health, added, “Thank you Swift County for the opportunity… Training, teaching, and inspiring someone that is excited about learning has been rewarding for all our staff.”
Amanda also gained real-world experience, with her host site noting, “It has been fun to help a new designer develop her talents, along with allowing her to expand her customer service experience.”
Download the 2025 Swift County Internship Packet Here to learn more about the interns and host sites.