Building Early Work Experience Through Technology
Michael, a junior at Norwell High School, spent his summer gaining early work experience as an intern in the Northern Wells Community Schools information technology department. His internship was part of Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) delivered by Easterseals Northeast Indiana, a program that helps high school students with disabilities prepare for future careers through hands-on opportunities.
From 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., four days a week, Michael worked on essential classroom technology across the Wells County district. His tasks included replacing worn-out computer cases, cleaning iPads for elementary students, and installing operating systems on desktop computers.
Independence and Professional Growth
Michael’s early work experience in IT revealed not only his skills but also his independence.
“He was really good for us,” said Byron Gerber, technology director for Northern Wells Community Schools. “He was the kind of employee who, after he’d had an assignment explained to him, could carry it off without micromanaging. He helped us out a lot this summer.”
Katherine Lyon, an Easterseals staff member who works with Pre-ETS students, agreed:
“Michael was pretty much independently working this position, with the help of other staff who work here. I only needed to check in once a week.”
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Michael was one of 70 students in Easterseals Pre-ETS who built skills through internships and volunteer work with 21 different community partners across Adams, Allen, Wells, and Whitley counties.
His personal projects—like experimenting with website design and loading software onto small computer boards—gave him the confidence to thrive in this internship.
From Early Work Experience to Career Goals
This wasn’t Michael’s first opportunity to gain early work experience. The previous summer, he interned at Science Central, where he programmed and set up robots. While that role was less technology-focused than his IT internship, both experiences shaped his skills and career interests.
“I’m not a very social person,” Michael admitted. “But working with computers is something I enjoy. My interest in computers as a career is more solidified now. I may aim for work in cybersecurity.”
About Easterseals Pre-ETS
Easterseals Northeast Indiana’s Pre-Employment Transition Services program provides opportunities for early work experience to high school students with disabilities. Through internships, community partnerships, and skill-building projects, students like Michael gain the tools and confidence they need to succeed in meaningful careers.