FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 11, 2025
Contact:
Clare Cloyd
clare.cloyd@ci.stpaul.mn.us
612-760-5074 (c)
Right Track Launches 2026 Employer Engagement Campaign and Celebrates Outstanding Employer Partners
SAINT PAUL – The City of Saint Paul’s youth employment and training program, Right Track, has launched its 2026 employer engagement campaign: Right Track 200 – Building Saint Paul’s Future Workforce.
For more than a decade, Right Track has offered high-quality internships and career exploration opportunities to thousands of young people who live in cost-burdened households or face barriers to employment. Last year alone, more than 1,000 Saint Paul youth gained valuable work experience through internships with employer partners across a wide range of industries.
As part of the new Right Track 200 campaign, the City of Saint Paul is seeking employer partners committed to providing high-quality internship experiences for local youth. The campaign’s goal is to secure at least 200 employer-paid internships for Saint Paul youth.
“Our young people aren’t just the leaders of tomorrow, they are the leaders of today,” said Mayor Melvin Carter. “Right Track connects our youth with real-world career experiences and brings employers into meaningful partnerships that strengthen our whole community. Investing in the talent of our young people is how we build a city where everyone can thrive.”
Employers interested in hosting a 2026 intern should contact Nardos Tesfalidet at Nardos.tesfalidet@ci.stpaul.mn.us. Applications to host interns are due Friday, February 6.
The summer 2026 internship application for Saint Paul residents ages 14–21 will open in February.
Recognizing Exceptional Employers
Right Track is proud to announce that the Minnesota Department of Administration – Facilities Management Division has been selected as the 2025 Employer of the Year, an award that honors organizations that go above and beyond in providing meaningful experiences for interns.
“The Minnesota Department of Administration, Facilities Management Division is honored to accept this award,” said Chad Olson, Plant Operations Manager. “Our partnership with Right Track closely aligns with our commitment to public service, community engagement, and workforce development. Hosting Right Track interns has been a rewarding experience, allowing us to gain valuable insights from their creativity, curiosity, and drive while supporting the professional growth of emerging young leaders. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Right Track.”
Each year, interns also nominate outstanding supervisors. The following individuals have been selected as 2025 Supervisors of the Year:
- Cindy Helback, Operations Coordinator, Airside Operations, Metropolitan Airport Commission
- Stephen Smith, Senior Transportation Planner, Public Works, Ramsey County
- Thao Vue, Community Recreation Coordinator, City of Saint Paul Parks & Recreation
Learn more about Right Track and view the full list of recent employer partners here. Businesses and organizations are invited to join this esteemed group in providing meaningful experiences for Saint Paul youth and helping diversify our future workforce.
About Right Track
Right Track’s mission is to build Saint Paul’s workforce by providing career-readiness training and work experience for local youth. The program offers paid internship opportunities for Saint Paul residents ages 14 to 21 through two primary summer employment programs, YJ1 and YJ2. Learn more at www.stpaul.gov/RightTrack.
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