Five students graduated this week from the Project SEARCH Class of 2026 following completion of a nine-month internship program hosted at Midland Memorial Hospital in Midland.
The national transition-to-work program helps students with intellectual and developmental disabilities gain workforce training and employment skills through immersive internships in real workplace settings, according to the Project SEARCH website.
Graduates gained hands-on experience in healthcare, hospitality and corporate environments while developing workplace and communication skills intended to prepare them for competitive employment opportunities, stated on their Facebook page.
Interns rotate through multiple departments during the program while receiving training in technical and soft skills, including professionalism, teamwork, communication and time management, according to information from the Project SEARCH website.
The local program operates through partnerships with Empowering Hands, PermiaCare and the Texas Workforce Commission, Midland Memorial Hospital stated on its Facebook page.
Midland Memorial Hospital launched Project SEARCH in 2023 as part of efforts to expand workforce opportunities for students transitioning into employment, according to Midland Health information shared online.
Hospital officials and community partners recognized the graduates during a ceremony this week honoring completion of the internship program and the students’ transition into the workforce.
Shirley Loughlin serves as the business liaison for the local Project SEARCH program at Midland Memorial Hospital. More information about the program at 432-221-1111 or through the Project SEARCH website.
