July 25 is National Intern Day – a day to celebrate the bright minds and enthusiastic spirits that light up our workplace. Here we celebrate the Port Alberni mill summer students by sharing their stories and experiences.

Family roots run deep in the town of Port Alberni, and for this year’s summer students, working at the Port Alberni mill was a way to gain experience without leaving the community. This sense of belonging was shared by many of the summer students. “I was born and raised in Port Alberni with my family roots being here since the 1800s,” says Malika McDonald, speaking of her deep connection to the area.

“A typical day at work involves a daily morning meeting with supervisors setting out the plan for the day,” explains Malika. “Our work incorporates tasks such as sweeping, shoveling, power washing, and cutting down bushes. We are also responsible for working safely, identifying hazards, and checking in on other summer students. Overall, our job is to create a clean working environment by implementing WorksafeBC procedures.”

Kai Blomquist found her mill experience educational: “Some of my memorable moments at the mill are learning about the different components in paper making.”

For Macee Norlock, the experience was eye opening: “In the beginning, I was amazed when I saw the big paper machines during the tour around the mill. It gave me an idea of what working in a mill job is like.”

Austin Kasten appreciated the community aspect of the job: “I’m interested in working here because a lot of my family and family friends also work here.”

Jayden Blake shared her family connection: “My dad is the director of Manufacturing and Business Applications at the mill, and my grandparents from both sides have also worked here!”

Jay Manson also has a family connection. His mother was a summer student here in the 90s, which made his experience even more connected to home. “The mill has a great reputation in Port Alberni for offering its employees opportunities to grow and advance,” says Jay.

Some of the students now see a future in the forestry. Brett Lehtonen says, “I have learned a lot of new skills since working in this summer job. It’s a great place and I can see myself working in the forestry industry in the future.”

That future is also in view for Maria Banman, who learned how to use a forklift during her experience. “I plan to continue my summers in the future with the forest industry,” she says.

As the summer progresses, these students will continue to not only gain practical skills but also be part of a legacy that connects them to the history and future of our Port Alberni mill.