THS Internship Program

Tecumseh High School Internship Program

In partnership with the Tecumseh Chamber of Commerce


What It Is

The Tecumseh High School Internship Program connects students with real-world career experiences through partnerships with local businesses and organizations. Students spend 3–5 days per week with professional mentors, gaining practical skills and insights into potential career paths.

This program is designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and the workforce, ensuring students leave high school with stronger resumes, confidence, and a clearer vision of their future.

 


Purpose

  • Career Exploration: Helps students discover what they love—and what they don’t—before entering college or the workforce.
  • Skill Development: Interns learn communication, reliability, initiative, and professionalism.
  • Stronger Workforce: Businesses can shape and inspire the next generation of employees while showcasing opportunities available locally.
  • Community Connection: Builds lasting relationships between students, businesses, and the community.

 


Recent Advances

The 2025 school year marked the program’s largest group yet—35 students. Highlights include:


  • Expanded placements including the Shawnee Athletico.
  • Growing partnerships in education, cosmetology, healthcare, journalism, law, and even professional bass fishing.
  • Return of healthcare internships with CPN’s ultrasound program and additional placements in physical therapy and communications.
  • Development of a Shadow Program (1-day, 5-day, or month-long internships during the summer) for students who cannot commit to a full semester but still need career exposure.



These advancements expand opportunities for students while keeping the focus on quality, mentorship, and meaningful experiences.

Testimony from a Mentor

Katie McMahan, Clinic Manager at Athletico Physical Therapy in Tecumseh, has been a mentor since the beginning of the program:


“My favorite thing to do with interns is throw them into real-life situations—like answering the phone on the spot or working directly with patients. It’s trial by fire, but that’s how they learn. Most of my interns get a lot of value out of it, and so do I. Watching them grow into confident, capable young adults is rewarding, and I hope they see the value our profession brings to the community.


Through this program I’ve seen how important it is to show students the careers available right here at home. Nearly six in ten young adults live within ten miles of where they grew up. By offering internships and building relationships, we help them see that meaningful careers and futures can be built right here in our community.”


Katie’s mentorship is a shining example of how local businesses can shape lives while investing in their own future workforce.

 


Why It Matters

  • For Students: Confidence, career clarity, and real-world skills.
  • For Businesses: Access to motivated young talent and an opportunity to train future employees.
  • For the Community: A stronger, more connected, and better-prepared workforce.


For Potential Mentors


Requirements

  • Operate a safe and reliable business environment (physical or remote).
  • Commit to hosting a student 3–5 days per week during the semester, or for a shorter shadow period.
  • Provide meaningful work tasks—not just observation.
  • Maintain open communication with the Internship Coordinator and the student.
  • Model professionalism and consistency.

How to Become a Mentor

  1. Reach out to the Internship Coordinator at Tecumseh High School or the Tecumseh Chamber of Commerce.
  2. A program leader will evaluate your business to ensure safety and compatibility.
  3. Discuss expectations with the coordinator so both you and your intern begin with clarity.
  4. Get matched with a student who aligns with your field, interests, and capacity.

 

Email Justin Wood today to get more information or sign up as a mentor:


woodj@tecumsehschools.org