Technology internship program almost a reality in Peabody

PEABODY – School Committee member Mike Moutsoulas is one step closer to achieving his goal of creating a technology internship program for Peabody students.He reported Tuesday night that his hard work is beginning to pay off with five local companies willing and ready to jump on board to help his cause.Moutsoulas first suggested the idea of organizing the pilot program back in September. The program would pair students with local high tech companies to help them gain experience and knowledge of the many different career opportunities the industry has to offer.”We’re in this technological hot bed,” said Moutsoulas in an earlier interview. “Kids wonder where math and science skills get you. Well, they can get you high paying jobs, and these jobs are right here in our own backyard.”Moutsoulas told the Committee that it is “incumbent upon us to spread the word” about the many technology companies and opportunities here on the North Shore, especially Peabody.He hopes to get kids excited about math and science and increase their interest in 21st century skills.After taking the task of researching and contacting employers, Moutsoulas said that the reception has been outstanding.”Many companies want to stay on the list for next year,” he told the Committee.So far, five businesses, including Harmonic Drive, LLC., Weston & Sampson Engineers, Cogent Engineering Incorporated, and Woodman Precision Engineering, all of Peabody, and Gienapp Design Associates, LLC of Danvers, have agreed to partner with the Peabody School System. The companies will offer students after school and summer internships where they can observe workers, work with Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, and learn from guest speakers, among a variety of other tasks.”This is a win-win,” said Assistant Superintendent Joe Mastrocola, adding that it would coincide with many other programs currently offered in Peabody.”This is a program that can absolutely change a young student’s life and career path,” said School Committee member Dave McGeney. “I don’t think it can be understated what the potential for this program is.”All Committee members thanked businesses for their positive response and participation in the program. Moutsoulas said he hopes to have programs in place for students by this summer, if not by the next school year.