Cochrane, Alberta – Once again the Town of Cochrane is participating in the Alberta Municipal Internship Program and warmly welcomes Michelle Austin as the Intern for the 2005/06 term.
Through a diverse background that includes working for mining corporations, environmental and forestry consulting firms, managing soil and water monitoring programs and refining a First Nation stewardship plan; Michelle brings a wealth of knowledge, insight, and experience to the Town of Cochrane. She hopes this challenge will advance her knowledge and abilities to a new level.
The Municipal Intern Program is a collaborative effort between Alberta Municipal Affairs & Housing and the Town of Cochrane. Participants are provided with the unique opportunity to experience the daily operations of all facets of local government.
“One of the main objectives is to help Alberta municipalities find competent employees to fill leadership positions,” explains Brenda Romanchuk, Municipal Clerk for the Town. “This is achieved by introducing new graduates to the field of local government by providing real-life, practical experience and training.”
“An opportunity like this may only come along once in a life time and I am honored to have been chosen as the new Municipal Intern for the Town of Cochrane,” says Michelle. “I view this experience as a tremendous catalyst to my career in local government, a time for self-discovery and personal growth, and most importantly, an opportunity to connect with the people of Cochrane through understanding their needs.”
While Michelle has lived most of her life in Terrace, British Columbia, she has an Alberta connection through her Métis ancestors who settled throughout the Grande Prairie and St. Albert areas. She recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Planning from the University of Northern British Columbia in Prince George, B.C.
Michelle commenced her internship with the Town on May 2 and will be spending time in all departments learning about local government.