August 13, 2025 (Santa Rosa, CA) — The Career Technical Education (CTE) Foundation, in partnership with the Sonoma County Office of Education, has launched Path to Purpose, a first of its kind countywide high school internship program designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world career experience.
This innovative program provides equitable access to high-quality internships for high school juniors and seniors enrolled in Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways, offering 40+ hours of real-world learning during the Spring semester, with the opportunity to earn college credit.
For local employers, Path to Purpose removes the barriers that often keep businesses from hosting youth interns. Through a flexible internship model and hands-on support, CTE Foundation makes it simple, compliant and rewarding to invest in the next generation of talent. CTE Foundation facilitates the entire process from intern vetting and placement, to meeting legal and logistical requirements, so our local businesses can focus on mentoring the next generation.
This is your opportunity to introduce youth to the wide range of career opportunities that exist in wine, agriculture and related businesses; everything from manufacturing and suppliers, to marketing and software, and everything in between.
What Makes Path to Purpose Unique:
- Centralized Student Application: Students apply once to be considered for multiple internship opportunities.
- Customized Matching: Interns are placed based on several criteria, including career interests, availability and goals.
- Support for Employers: Optional monthly workshops, on-call guidance and ready-to-use resources.
- Equity-Driven Approach: Designed to eliminate barriers so all students—regardless of background—can access meaningful opportunities.
Secured industry partners include: Healthcare and Wellness, Education and Youth Services, Community and Social Services, Construction and Skilled Trades, Arts, Culture and Hospitality, Animal and Environmental Services, Automotive and are seeking opportunities in Agriculture and Advanced Manufacturing.
CTE Foundation is hosting an Employer Workshop on Friday, August 15, from 9–11 AM, where businesses can learn how to lay the foundation for building an effective youth internship.
Space is limited for the Employer Workshop. To learn more or register, visit: www.ctesonomacounty.org/pathtopurpose or email bjewell@ctesonomacounty.org.