On July 15th, 2022, several Charleston County high school students completed the first part of the Paving the way to Better Public Safety Internship. They were honored by Charleston County and School District Leaders. The program is a partnership between Charleston County Public Safety Directorate and the Charleston County School District.

This summer, students practiced team leadership exercises, worked on geographical skills, and prepared for certification courses.

“Our sessions have been filled with constructive discussion, engaging exercises, and industry standard dispatch training, which will help advance these students into a career in public safety,” said Support Services Supervisor, and Project Coordinator Veronica Ross. “We’ve had a lot of fun this summer and I think we have all learned a lot in the process.”

The two-year program includes four to six weeks of paid training in the summer months for high school juniors and another four to eight weeks of paid training for returning seniors the next summer.

“I am proud of these students and our dedicated instructors who are empowering them to become future leaders within Charleston County Government,” said Deputy County Administrator of Public Safety Eric Watson. “Applicants who complete the certification courses will be eligible for a fast track to employment with our 9-1-1 Consolidated Dispatch Center or Emergency Medical Services.”

Learn more about the program from the Holy City Sinner.