Students complete internship with the Virginia Air & Space Science Center

Eight Bethel High School seniors had an opportunity to participate in the Start on Success program by interning at the Virginia Air & Space Science Center (VASSC) during the 2023-2024 school year. Through this partnership and internship, students were afforded an opportunity to get valuable work experience and possible future employment. Students worked as a part of their regular school day with their instructor Miguel Incorminius accompanying them.

This year’s participants were:  Nakaya Burton, Jason Cheely II, Xavier Davis, Aaron Esters, Shakeyna Small, Ty’lisha Thomas, Tanysiah Waters, and Kahlia Whitehead.

This year’s program culminated with the recognition of the students with certificates and gift bags. Executive director/CEO of the VASSC Dr. Jeffery Smith, Hampton City Schools director of career and technical education Seth Black, and Kimberly Shepard, district manager for the department of aging and rehabilitation services were in attendance to talk about the program.

“These students put a tremendous amount of effort into this program. In addition to their CTE coursework linked to the internship, this experience ensures that they are prepared for the workforce. Over half of the students plan to attend college, while the rest will enter the workforce after graduation,” shared Sherry Hildebrandt, Hampton City Schools transition specialist.