First West Empowers Young Canadians with Summer Internships

First West Launches Summer Internship Program

First West Credit Union is proud to announce its dedication to supporting local communities by offering valuable employment opportunities for young Canadians. This summer, the organization is welcoming 26 student interns across various departments, providing them with hands-on experience in business, finance, human resources, and technology.

Creating Opportunities Amidst Economic Challenges

In an environment where youth unemployment rates remain elevated, Launi Skinner, CEO of First West Credit Union, emphasizes the importance of investing in youth. She states, "It's crucial to create pathways for young people to acquire meaningful experience in Canada. By integrating 26 student interns into our workforce, we’re bridging the gap between education and unemployment. This initiative is beneficial for students, our communities, and the economy as a whole." This initiative shows First West's commitment to nurturing new talent and reinforcing its community ties.

Benefits for Students and First West

Skinner notes that the internship program benefits both the students and the credit union. The students provide fresh perspectives and new ideas that help challenge existing processes and encourage innovation within the organization. It’s a dynamic relationship where students contribute while also growing professionally.

A Commitment to Education and Growth

First West started its formal internship program during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, driven by a vision to create valuable job experiences for students. To date, the program has successfully invested over $1.1 million, welcoming 15 to 26 students each year across various disciplines such as retail banking, operations, marketing, and information technology.

Student Experiences Shared

Among the interns is Eric Lee, a student from the University of Victoria. He expresses gratitude for the opportunity, saying, "The internship at First West is not just about gaining work experience; it’s helped me build my confidence, connect with professionals, and feel optimistic about my career prospects." He acknowledges the fierce competition in the job market, stating that opportunities like these are critical for students looking to graduate.

Collaboration with Local Educational Institutions

First West has partnered with numerous institutions to identify and recruit talented students. Collaborating with universities such as Simon Fraser University, the University of British Columbia, and others, First West is fostering connections that provide students with the skills and experience needed for a successful future.

Explore Internship Opportunities

For students interested in maximizing their internship experience at First West, detailed information can be found on their careers page. This platform offers insights into the available opportunities and the application process, making it easy for aspiring candidates to take the next step in their careers.

About First West Credit Union

First West Credit Union stands out as a leading Canadian financial institution, merging stability with a community-oriented approach. Under the direction of CEO Launi Skinner, First West proudly serves 283,000 members through its well-regarded community brands: Envision Financial, Valley First, Island Savings, and Enderby & District Financial. With nearly $20 billion in assets, First West is committed to providing exceptional service and impactful financial advice across its 45 branches in B.C.

Community Impact and Recognition

First West has a longstanding commitment to community investment, contributing over $41 million to various initiatives since 2010. Their efforts in building a positive workplace culture have earned them national recognition, including awards for their workplace environment and wellbeing. By redefining banking, First West aims to ensure everyone can thrive in the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What types of internships does First West offer?

First West offers internships in fields such as business, finance, human resources, technology, marketing, and operations.

2. How many students are participating in the internship program?

This summer, 26 students have been welcomed into the internship program at First West.

3. How can students apply for internships at First West?

Students can find information on available internships by visiting the First West careers page.

4. What is the duration of the internship program?

The internship positions are typically offered as paid summer internships, lasting for the duration of the summer.

5. What has been the impact of the internship program?

The program has successfully bridged the gap between education and job opportunities while providing real-world experience for students.

About The Author

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