People First: Dairyland's Intern Cohort

As part of Dairyland's People First culture, an Intern Cohort was established in 2023 to ensure interns have an impactful and well-rounded experience that exposes them to various aspects of our industry. As part of the program, interns are given the opportunity to tour generation facilities, transmission sites and explore many areas of Dairyland's operations. These opportunities have helped provide hands-on learning experiences that highlight how each role contributes to our mission delivering safe and reliable energy to our members.

Networking is also a key focus of the intern program, providing interns with opportunities to connect with seasoned professionals within Dairyland. These interactions not only broaden their professional network but also expose them to diverse career paths within the organization, helping them envision their future roles. Additionally, interns participate in bi-weekly lunches that serve as informal gatherings where they can connect, share experiences and build relationships that extend beyond their perspective roles.

As the summer comes to an end, their work over the past few months culminates in a final presentation where they showcase what they have learned and their achievements. In recognition of their contributions and to celebrate their hard work, a final internship outing is held at the Loggers baseball game.

As Dairyland continues to grow and evolve, the intern cohort plays a vital role in shaping our future workforce. "Dairyland's Intern Cohort is an important piece of our People First culture. By investing in the next generation of leaders and welcoming their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, we're ensuring a sustainable workforce and the future for our industry," explained President and CEO Brent Ridge.

This program not only prepares interns for success but also positions Dairyland as an employer of choice. The intern cohort was created to help interns connect with each other and expose them to opportunities they would not otherwise have. By fostering a safe and collaborative environment, Dairyland ensures interns gain valuable insights while prioritizing safety and professional growth, preparing them to be integral members of our community.