As a graduate of Garfield High School planning to attend South Seattle College, Jaybrie applies his prior knowledge of computer programming to his internship with the Port of Seattle by creating solutions for business dilemmas.
Alongside a small group of other information and communication technology (ICT) interns, he assists in purchased car requests by creating an easier method for purchasers, requesters, approvers and vendors to view information.
Jaybrie’s process of becoming a Port of Seattle intern is similar to that of other teenagers in the Seattle Youth Employment Program (SYEP). Being a member of the program since middle school provided him with the chance to explore fields he may be interested in.
"There were a lot of other options from SYEP that were taken, but if I did have the opportunity I still would have chosen this one because it still interests me," Jaybrie said about the Port’s high school internship program. "I think [the internship] is very helpful for young kids that are interested in web design, are fascinated with anything that has to do with the internet in general, or if you’re interested in business planning."
The wide range of tasks required of an ICT intern allows an extensive set of opportunities de-signed to give him valuable experience and the ability to network. From meeting Seattle’s mayor, to discussing business strategies, the routine of an ICT intern varies from day to day ensuring a versa-tile work environment. "The most interesting thing was meeting all the CEOs and the ‘higher ups.’ That was actually pretty cool. We got to meet the mayor, and that was pretty cool too. I didn’t know we were going to get to meet the mayor!"
