In 2017, Tyson Foods launched an internship program for college students in connection with the University of Arkansas Cossatot. Paid internship positions in refrigeration and maintenance were made available year-round to any UA Cossatot student enrolled in industrial technology courses with starting pay ranging from $12 - $14 per hour. Tem Gunter, Human Resource Manager of Tyson Foods in Nashville, says “The internship program is a success. Students are gaining valuable work experience and making connections in their chosen field.” Adding, “We’re excited to see interns transitioning into full-time maintenance team positions and look forward to inviting new talent into the program.”
Vincent Grant Strasner of Dierks and Victor Hartness of Nashville are two of many students reaping the rewards of the internship. “This is such a great opportunity. I’m learning a lot in the classroom, but the hands-on experience has gotten me more excited about my career choice”, said Strasner who has been in the internship for four months. “Going to school at UA Cossatot and being a part of this internship at Tyson Foods has helped me relate to this field and know more about what I am going into, says Hartness of Nashville. Hartness has been in the program for sixteen months and is closing out his last semester at UA Cossatot.
Tyson Foods maintenance managers, Darrell Whilhite and Tony Quinn, oversee the work of the interns and provide student’s real-world experiences that give them the chance to apply what they are learning. Whilhite explained why the internship is so important, saying “With computer process controls taking over the industry, maintenance technicians are in high demand.” Quinn, added, “The internship program plays an important role in sustaining a high-quality workforce.”
Tyson offers up to 30 hours of part-time work to UA Cossatot interns and is willing to work around students’ class schedules, offering first, second, and third shift options. To apply for this Tyson internship opportunity, visit www.tysonfoodcareers.com.
From left to right- Human Resource Manager of Tyson Foods Nashville Tem Gunter, Victor Hartness of Nashville, Vincent Grant Strasner of Dierks, Tyson Foods Maintenance Managers, Darrell Whilhite and Tony Quinn.