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Released: 9/2/2025
DRPA Celebrates Successful Completion of 2025 Summer Internship Program
Twelve-week program equips students with skills, mentorship, and professional development while fostering a culture of teamwork and well-being.
The Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA) is pleased to announce the successful completion of its 2025 Summer Internship Program, a longstanding initiative that continues to provide college, trade , and law school students with meaningful learning opportunities, hands-on experience, and professional connections that last well beyond the program.
Interns began working at DRPA/PATCO on June 2, 2025. Over the span of 12 weeks, interns were fully immersed in the workplace. They contributed to substantive projects, engaged with agency leaders, and experienced first-hand the value of teamwork, collaboration, and effective communication. In addition to acquiring hard skills relevant to their roles, students participated in a five-session professional development series designed to develop critical soft skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and networking. The professional development series culminated with a financial literacy session led by professionals from TD Bank, followed by the awarding of Certificates of Completion.
For the first time, this year’s program included a focus on mental health awareness and work-life balance. Students were challenged to launch an innovative mental health initiative that linked National Ice Cream Day (July 20) and International Self-Care Day (July 24). The event concluded with ice cream, toppings, and water ice, reinforcing the importance of balance and well-being.
Mentorship has proven central to our program's success. Supervisors and staff welcomed interns as integral members of the team, developed thoughtful assignments, and provided the necessary guidance needed to help the interns succeed. Throughout the summer, interns gained confidence and grew professionally. Interns were surveyed several times during the summer to access their satisfaction with their experience. They consistently praised the DRPA/PATCO work culture, describing it as “welcoming” and “supportive.” In the final survey conducted at the end of the summer, 100% of respondents said they would recommend the internship program to other students. This is a clear reflection of the program’s strength.
Our internship program continues to be a proven pipeline for talent. Many past interns have transitioned into full-time roles, demonstrating the program’s strength in preparing the next generation of professionals.
“Our internship program is about more than just summer employment. It’s about preparing students to lead, contribute, and succeed,” said John T. Hanson, DRPA CEO and President of PATCO. “The 2025 interns left their mark here, and we’re better for it. I’m grateful for their talent, enthusiasm, and fresh perspective they brought to DRPA and PATCO.”
DRPA’s Chief Administrative Officer, Toni P. Brown leads the internship program.
“This program is one of the most meaningful initiatives I have the privilege to lead. This summer’s cohort reminded me every day why that’s true. Their energy, dedication, curiosity, and contributions enriched our organization in ways that will be remembered long after they leave. Their personal contributions are a reminder that they were here and made a meaningful difference,” said Brown.
Recruitment for the 2026 Summer Internship Program will begin in December 2025.
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