Investing in the Future: City Recognizes Its Interns

Published on July 31, 2025

Man with a headset sitting at a cubicle desk, engaged in a phone call. Office setting with computers, organized desk, and a coworker in the background.

The City of Maricopa is proud to celebrate National Intern Day, recognizing the hard work and fresh perspectives of the talented interns who are making an impact across various departments. From Human Resources to Development Services, and the Municipal Courthouse, these emerging young professionals are helping to shape the future of our community.

Internships offer high school and college students, as well as recent graduates valuable hands-on experience in working for a municipal government. Each intern is trained by a decorated team and given real-world projects that not only support city operations but also allow them to build skills and explore potential career paths.

A young woman in a navy blazer smiles at her desk in an office. Behind her, coworkers are standing and working at computers, creating a professional and collaborative atmosphere.

“I decided to take an internship opportunity with the City of Maricopa because Maricopa is a thriving and expanding city that has shown to embrace new ideas and a strong sense of community. I’ve appreciated the space they have provided for me to improve at my own pace, offering tremendous information on the city operations of Development Services and hands-on learning, and the supportive environment created by the Director Rodolfo Lopez and my team members,” said Cynthia Tse currently interning in the Development Services department.

A man with a beard and tattoos sits smiling at a desk in an office cubicle, wearing a light blue shirt. The workspace is tidy, with papers and a small plant.

“I've really enjoyed the welcoming environment and the chance to collaborate with professionals who are passionate about public service. Everyday there could be something new in the office, and I appreciate the opportunity to contribute meaningfully while learning in the process,” said Rafael Lockett currently interning in the Human Resources department.

A smiling person sits at a conference table in an office, wearing a blue blouse. A notepad, phone, and laptop are on the table, with a welcoming sign in the background.

“I truly enjoy the municipal court environment. My co-workers are awesome individuals that not only grow in their own skills but guide each other as well. I also enjoy the team building that goes on here. Yes, we work, and we take what we do seriously, but it is nice to be able to seek knowledge, and your own opinions heard and respected,” said Kiana Early-Palafox currently interning at the Municipal Courthouse.

The impact of the internship program is evident in the success stories it has produced. One such story is that of Casey Norman, who started as an intern earlier this year and is now an official employee of the City of Maricopa.

A woman with long blonde hair and glasses stands smiling in an office. She's wearing a black top. The office has a relaxed atmosphere with soft lighting.

“My internship had a huge impact on my decision to stay with the City of Maricopa, and a big part of that was how much I love the planning team. From day one, they’ve been welcoming, supportive, and always willing to help me learn and grow. The positive environment they’ve created made it easy to feel like part of the team, and I quickly realized it was the kind of workplace culture I wanted to be a part of long-term. Their passion for the work and commitment to the community really inspired me, and I knew I wanted to continue being part of that,” said Casey who was promoted from Intern to Planning Tech in May of this year.

The City of Maricopa remains committed to investing in the next generation of public service leaders. For more information about internship opportunities with the City of Maricopa, visit our careers page.