2023 Steelworker Summer Internship
Steelworker Summer is an educational and training internship in which participants develop skills useful for union growth by experiencing firsthand the kinds of struggles workers face while trying to win a voice at work and in the community. It is also designed to give participants an understanding and appreciation of the positive impact unions have had on the lives of working people. Steelworker Summer is a program for young adults who want experience working for social justice firsthand. Ideally, interns will remain active after Steelworker Summer by educating others about the value of the labour movement, possibly forming student/labour action coalitions, becoming union organizers, or contributing in some other way to the labour movement. Internships are open to young adults, 17 years of age or older. Preference for selection is given to children of members of the United Steelworkers. Steelworker Summer is about uniting students, workers, and community activists to create social justice in workplaces and communities.
Applicants should have a strong commitment to social and economic justice, as well as an openness to working with a broad cross section of people. This includes people of all equality-seeking groups, including, but not only, women, people with disabilities and people of colour. Participants need to be people-oriented, enthusiastic, energetic and willing to work a challenging and flexible schedule. A college degree is not required. Previous union experience is not necessary. Volunteerism or activism is a plus.
Steelworker Summer 2023 will take place in July and August. Participants will be assigned to various projects where they will work with USW members and staff to help workers in their fight for workplace or community justice.
Steelworker Summer is not a job but an educational internship. Participants will receive a stipend of $650 per week to cover meals and other incidental expenses. Taxes will be deducted from the stipend.
Placement is based on many factors including the experience level of the participant, the needs of a particular campaign and the availability of staff to work with interns.
Deadline: Application must be received by June 30, 2023