Career Pathways Program

Our Career and College Readiness programs help youth transition from adolescence to adulthood with the abilities, skills, and mindsets needed to navigate life’s opportunities and challenges.

Eight young students pose for a photo holding their program completion certificates.

Fall-Spring Programming:

During October through May  youth will learn about various workforce/career topics like

  • Resume Building
  • Cover Letters
  • Communication Skills
  • Work Life Balance
  • Time Management
  • Stress Management
  • Goal Setting
  • Career Planning
  • Dress for Success
  • And more

Summer Internship:

Summer Internship program is a collaborative effort between Dane County UW-Extension & Dane County Departments. The 6 week program offers  youth a placement in a Dane County Department, work with public service employees and opportunities to build professional networks.

Summer Internship Applications Open Spring 2027

Contact: Venkata Karri Karri.venkata@danecounty.gov

Frequently Asked Questions

Here, you’ll find answers to common questions about our Career Pathways Program. If you have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Venkata Karri.

One young lady is staring the camera sitting in a chair with the Library Dream bus behind her
Three youths are standing near a sign that says Badger Prairie in a field.
Two youths in a forest looking at the camera with smiles
Three youths stand in front of the County Seal and pose side by side near county and us flags

Why This Program Matters:

This program aims to provide a glimpse into these essential fields/careers within local government and to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to excel in these fields. By facilitating career exploration, hands-on projects, networking opportunities, field visits, mentorship, and educational resources.

Past Participating Departments:

  • The Dane County Executive Office
  •  Library Services
  • Henry Vilas Zoo
  •  Land and Water Resources Department
  • Department of Human Services
  • UW Extension

Past Student Reflections:

“It gave me insights into how the county does work with and interacts with the public and enormously broadened my understanding of county processes.”

“I had previously only considered city, state, and federal-level positions as my aspiration, but working in this internship opened my eyes to working in county-level public service. Getting to see the effect government has on residents’ day-to-day lives also reinforced my desire to work in a government-related field.”

“Within the internship, it was great to experience what public policy does and how it works in the community.”

Staff Contact Information:

Venkata Karri | UW Extension College & Career Pathways Educator

Karri.Venkata@danecounty.gov