Johanna Isaro Ngango recently completed an internship with the Benton Economic Partnership. This is what she had to say about the experience.
During my internship at Benton Economic Partnership Inc., I had the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience and deepen my understanding of the field. Economic Development plays a crucial role in fostering growth and improving the quality of life in communities, and my internship provided me with a practical understanding of the strategies and initiatives involved. When I started, I did not know what to expect; I just knew as an aspiring planner, I wanted to pursue a field that helps create sustainable and inclusive economies/communities.
My internship in economic development provided me with several key learnings that will shape my future career.
Research and Analysis – Working as an economic development/marketing intern at BEP aroused my curiosity on various economic development indicators and trends. I acquired more knowledge related to workforce development, business attraction retention and expansion, gap financing, and other relevant factors. By studying this information, I developed a skill that will enable me to contribute to evidence-based, informed recommendations for economic development strategies and initiatives in the future.
Collaboration and Communication – Another important aspect of my internship was engaging with local communities. My supervisor always emphasized the importance of building a relationship with the community you are serving. Economic development requires engaging with multiple parties, each with their own interests and priorities. I participated in meetings and events where I interacted with stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, and community members. These interactions provided me with a deeper understanding of the diverse perspectives and interests involved in economic development efforts. I believe that learning to navigate these complex dynamics will be invaluable in my future endeavors.
Project Support – I also had the opportunity to support ongoing economic development projects. Through this hands-on experience, I gained insights into the practical aspects of project management and the challenges faced in executing economic development initiatives. Through assisting with ongoing projects, I learned about the importance of meticulous planning, effective resource allocation, and adaptability in overcoming challenges.
Overall, my internship at BEP was a transformative experience that deepened my understanding of economic systems, honed my analytical and communication skills, and provided me with practical insights into project management. I am confident that the knowledge and skills gained during this internship will contribute to my future success in the field of economic development.