Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA) said goodbye recently to its nine summer interns, who joined KOA from universities across the nation.
The interns participated in a 12-week paid program that ended in mid-August. Interns received hands-on experience in campground operations at nationwide KOA campgrounds.
Interns were immersed in various hospitality industry aspects, including guest services, campground operations and risk management.
One intern, Virginia Beach KOA Holiday’s Emilie Villalobos, said, “I have learned what it is like to work in and manage a campground, by working in all of the KOA campground departments. Additionally, I learned how each department cannot function properly without the others.”
Interns were required to complete projects addressing key operational goals, including enhancing efficiencies, creating new revenue streams, and updating procedures. KOA said this year’s standout projects included:
- National Autism Certification through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCEES)
- Incorporation of native flora and fauna for sustainable landscaping
- KOA Cafe and Campstore refresh to enhance sales
- Piezoelectricity for campground energy solutions
- Development of risk management procedures
- Incorporating alcohol sales into the campground Campstore
KOA Senior Vice President of Human Resources Yolawnda Henry said, “At KOA, we understand the importance of building our future hospitality leaders. Our internship program focuses on developing the next generation of campground operators to ensure our industry has stability and sustainability for years to come.”
Interns were placed at KOA locations around the country.
Ali Kieffer, manager at Blue Ridge/Toccoa River KOA Holiday, said, “(The KOA Internship program) benefited both the intern and our campground because of the support offered by the KOA Home Office staff. Our intern worked in all aspects of the campground, which allowed him to apply his newfound knowledge from his weekly KOA sessions.”
KOA plans to expand the internship program at up to four additional universities during 2024-2025. The company aims to recruit the next cohort of interns for summer 2025, with applications opening in early November at WorkAtKOA.com.
