I joined the Environmental Protection Division (EPD) as a student intern with the Compliance Support and Strategic Engagement (CSSE) program in June of 2023. I am currently a junior at the University of Central Florida pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science with a minor in Mass Culture and Collective Behavior and Fine Arts. Within CSSE I assist with educational campaigns, crafting the internal newsletter and capturing photos of EPD employees in the field and office. Because of EPD’s unique internship structure, my experiences are not limited to CSSE projects. I am given the opportunity to shadow other programs within EPD. So far, I’ve been able to shadow Pollution Control, NPDES and Lake Management, just to name a few. As someone aspiring to an environmental career, yet not entirely certain about my specific path, I am profoundly appreciative of the opportunity to shadow various environmental professionals and gain insights into their daily work routines. The wealth of new information and captivating knowledge imparted by the dedicated staff has been invaluable. I find it essential to witness the interactions that the EPD staff engage in with community members, stakeholders and their colleagues. This enables me to continuously develop my skills in fostering productive discussions concerning environmental issues, with the ultimate goal of discovering equitable and effective solutions for environmental issues in Orange County and the rest of the world. With a year left to graduate, I will be continuing my position at EPD as a paid Intern. I hope to dedicate more time to this position and further my contribution to the environment and the community of Orange County. 

The Orange County Environmental Protection Division (EPD) will host a virtual Meet & Greet on Wednesday, March 27 at 9 a.m. This networking event is for those interested in volunteering as interns for the summer and fall semesters. At the Meet & Greet, EPD staff will conduct brief interviews with candidates and describe various internship opportunities. Current internship application and enrollment in school is required. Candidates must RSVP to participate.

Join the Orange County Environmental Protection Division for the next Jr. Naturalist class on Saturday, February 17. To celebrate World Wetlands Day, we will be getting out and into a wetland swamp. Come learn about swamp habitats in Florida and join us for a wet hike among the cypress trees and knees. Register today! Send an email for more information and to receive future class announcements.

Would you like to learn more about the Orange County Environmental Protection Division (EPD)? EPD is excited to share a variety of information about events, sustainability, the Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge, regulatory updates, lake management, water quality and more! If you would like to be included on the email list, please fill out this brief sign-up form.