Local Government Academy has begun its 25th year of the Municipal Intern Program (MIP). MIP provides the opportunity for grads and undergrads to experience local government projects and operations, which range from sustainability practices and GIS mapping to community and economic development.

My name is Mary Romine, and I’m a second year Master of Social Work student at the University of Pittsburgh, with a concentration in mental health. As the Project Coordinator, my role is to oversee the interns and make sure they have a fulfilling internship experience through our program. I spent the first year of my graduate program interning at Local Government Academy, and it was an unforgettable learning opportunity and helped me grow as a young professional.

My goal is to make sure the MIP interns gain valuable skills and complete successful projects during their internship. I’m also here to support the collaboration between interns and their supervisors, as I know how meaningful it can be to form a professional bond with your colleagues.

One way we are communicating is through social media, and we’re using a Facebook group to get to know each other. Recently, we asked the interns: “What does a typical day look like at your internship?”

Grace is interning in Aleppo Township as a Multi-Municipal GIS specialist. Along with a photo of herself sporting a bright work vest, she shared, “Some days I am driving and walking the township taking inventory of signs using a GPS enabled tablet … some days I am in the office planning for the next phase of the inventory or watching GIS tutorials.”

Grace is helping Aleppo Township, Glen Osborne Borough, and Kilbuck Township to create geodatabases for asset identification, which will enable local leaders to identify needs and prioritize infrastructure investments.

Molly, an intern at the Borough of Greenville, began her internship by reviewing administrative documents and will work alongside her supervisor to write updated administrative codes. Her duties are a part of the Borough’s Economic Development Strategy, which was formed following the Greenville voters’ decision to become a home rule community.

Rochester Borough’s intern, Ethan, is spending his time creating a website and social media for the Heart & Soul Program, as well as reaching out to community partners. Rochester Borough’s project aims to bridge the gap between citizens and government. Ethan has the opportunity this summer to split his workload between home and the municipal building.

These are only a few of the projects from our interns, and we will continue to highlight their experiences and Excellence in Local Government. Make sure to check out our website and Facebook page to see updates!