Every summer, the Mickey Leland Environmental Internship Program (MLEIP) welcomes undergraduate and graduate students from across the state and nation to its one-of-a-kind experience. This summer is no different as this year's group is embarking on a journey of learning, growth, and connection.

Students have the opportunity to work alongside agency experts, gaining firsthand experience in environmental media such as air monitoring, data analysis, and policy development while also gaining an understanding of the investigation and permitting processes. Other interns were selected by other state agencies, companies, and non-profits who also see the benefit of mentoring the next generation of environmental professionals.

Regardless of where they are placed for their full-time paid internship, the goal is to provide each intern with hands-on experience that extends beyond the classroom and will help them learn the importance of teamwork, communication, and critical thinking. These skills will go on to help them in their future career endeavors.

"The MLEIP is more than just an internship-it's a steppingstone to a fulfilling career. With the support of TCEQ, mentors, and a community of peers, interns are well equipped to go out and make a positive impact on the world," said Avery Klein-Cloud, MLEIP Coordinator.

Other highlights of the summer intern experience are the networking opportunities this internship provides.

At the kickoff event in June, interns were able to hear from a few professionals about their educational backgrounds and experiences in the field. Some of this year's featured speakers were Commissioner Catarina Gonzales, Dr. Alison Leland, and Jerrel Cooper.

Commissioner Gonzales shared her journey, the importance of TCEQ's mission, and encouraged interns to make the most of their time here.

Dr. Leland, who sits on the MLEIP board and is Director of the Honors College at the University of Houston, offered advice and motivational stories that interns connected with. She spoke with interns about how they can build long-lasting connections that will help them in the future and the importance of being open and listening to others.

Jerrel Cooper, former intern and current MLEIP board member, articulated how this program can be a pivotal time in one's journey and often help prepare students for a transition from TCEQ to the private sector.

Other events like the annual celebration on National Intern Day and the Annual Intern Conference further strengthen the networking opportunities and allow representatives from TCEQ divisions and other sponsors to meet with the interns on a more personal level. For some, there may be an opportunity to gain valuable experience interviewing for a potential job.

As this year's group will spend the next few weeks wrapping up their internships and preparing for their next steps, many are thankful for this opportunity.

"The MLEIP has provided me with governmental work experience and management I would have never been able to access otherwise," said Lillian Lee, Natural Resource Specialist Intern, Drinking Water Inventory and Protection Team. "It presented me with the day-to-day work life I can see myself in years in the future."

Applications for next summer will be accepted beginning in September.

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