Charles County Economic Development Department (EDD) strengthens the county’s workforce by working with major employers and industries and providing programs and services that support local businesses. That commitment also extends to developing the next generation of talent within our own office.
This summer, EDD welcomed two marketing interns, May-Shannen Carlos and Izzah Khan. Throughout their internships, May-Shannen and Izzah worked on a variety of projects, learned more about marketing and economic development, and contributed to the EDD’s day-to-day work.
As the summer comes to a close, we asked May-Shannen and Izzah to look back on their internships and share some of what they learned along the way.
Hear from our interns:
During their internships, May-Shannen and Izzah worked on a range of projects that gave them hands-on experience in marketing, communications, and economic development. While their individual projects varied, both gained a better understanding of how these areas support local businesses and the Charles County community.
Some of the takeaways from their internship experience included:
- Building digital marketing skills: Both interns earned AEO/SEO certifications and gained experience with Google Analytics, content optimization, social media, and digital communications.
- Creating content and supporting marketing efforts: May-Shannen developed graphics, copy, newsletters, and features for Charles County Agriculture, while Izzah reviewed blog and social media content and completed a historical social media audit with recommendations to improve digital communications.
- Learning about advertising and outreach: Izzah completed mock advertising campaign analyses and presentations, while both interns contributed to marketing and outreach efforts to support EDD.
- Gaining firsthand experience in economic development: Both learned about current projects, programs, and initiatives across the Department, including work related to agriculture, agritourism, SLBE and MWBE programs, and business support.
- Working with businesses and partners: The interns observed vendor meetings, worked with stakeholders, and learned how relationships between EDD, businesses, and community partners are coordinated.
Why Internships Are Important
Internships take what students learn in the classroom and apply these skills in professional settings. They help students build practical skills, explore different career paths, and gain a better understanding of the type of work they may want to pursue after graduation.
Employers benefit just as much; interns bring value to the workplace. Students bring new perspectives, ideas, and skills and learn how a business or organization operates. Internships can also help employers build relationships with future talent and introduce students to career opportunities within Charles County.
Internships help Charles County build its workforce, one new skill at a time. When students gain experience with local employers, they are better positioned to understand the career opportunities available in their own communities.
Preparing the Next Generation
Developing a strong workforce takes ongoing collaboration between students, educators, employers, and community organizations. Internships are one way to create those connections and give students a chance to see how education can translate into careers.
When we welcome interns at EDD, we learn from the next generation of professionals. May-Shannen and Izzah brought their own ideas, perspectives, and skills to EDD while gaining firsthand experience in marketing and economic development.
As Charles County continues to grow, creating opportunities for students and young professionals to connect with local businesses is an important pathway to support the county's economy in the years ahead.