Nicollete Gardner, Kanetra King, Adilene Romero, Lyanne Mauricio

 Students in the National Academy Foundation (NAF) Academy of Hospitality and Tourism (AOHT) programs at six high schools in the Dallas Independent School District (DISD) have the opportunity of interning in their chosen career program at the American Airlines Center this summer.  American Airlines Center and DISD have worked together for the past five years to create a quality internship program for these students. 

Each spring American Airlines Center managers interview prospective students in the program and hire four to six students to work in various departments of its organization for six to eight weeks during the summer of their junior year.  Internships provide students with on-the-job training and the opportunity to see the value of their high school learning.  The interns selected for this summer’s internship are currently working in the marketing, human resources, guest services and operations departments. 

“The DISD Academy of Hospitality & Tourism Internship program at the American Airlines Center is a real treasure,” said Mayne.  “The interns are engaged in actual work allowing them to receive hands on experience while fulfilling their need to learn how our business works.  These young folks inspire our employees with their energy, curiosity, passion and willingness to work.”  

Several students have continued working during their senior year of high school in their AOHT Career Preparation course and American Airlines Center has hired students after graduation. Currently, two students that previously participated in the internship program are on staff at American Airlines Center.  These internships have proven to be a ‘win-win’ opportunity for the company and for the students.