The Creators, Originators & Innovators of Tomorrow Workforce Initiative (COITWI) is a paid internship for high school students offered by the Rickenbacker Woods Foundation, located at the historic childhood home of Captain Eddie Rickenbacker. COITWI empowers the next generation of community-minded leaders by blending history, innovation, workforce skills, and built-in wellness supports to create real pathways for youth in Columbus.
What is COITWI? COITWI is more than an internship. It’s a hands-on experience where students can:
- Design and Build Projects: Lead real neighborhood improvements—public art, green spaces, and community upgrades that promote health, sustainability, and pride in underinvested areas.
- Engage in STEAM Learning: Level up skills in digital media, design thinking, mapping/fabrication, and emerging tech like AI—building a portfolio you can show colleges and employers.
- Lead Civic Engagement Projects: Plan and host youth-led events, community festivals, climate-action days, and safety initiatives with citywide partners.
- Preserve and Share Local History: Tell the stories of Eddie Rickenbacker and Granville T. Woods and lift up neighborhood voices through oral history, exhibits, and digital storytelling.
- Explore Ohio’s Cultural and Educational Landscape: Take trips to museums, colleges, historic landmarks, and cultural neighborhoods across Ohio—including HBCUs and other campuses.
Why Join COITWI?
- Receive a paid internship while building leadership, teamwork, and job-ready skills.
- Strengthen your résumé and college portfolio through real projects and youth leadership.
- Gain exposure to college and vocational careers, public speaking, civic action, and community storytelling.
- Be part of a youth-led program reshaping how communities engage young people—and feel supported with wellness-first practices every step of the way.
How to Apply? Applications are open! Apply below! If selected for an interview, bring a letter of recommendation from a teacher, counselor, coach, or another non-family adult who can speak to your strengths.
When? COITWI will operate October 2025 through December 2025. Apply today!
Program days will be Tuesday and Thursday after school and on Saturday. Interested students should apply below.
If chosen for an interview, applicants are encouraged to bring a letter of recommendation (not written by a family member).
The COITWI 2025 Teen Internship application period is now closed. Please check back for future opportunities
We actively encourage diverse candidates to apply. RWF provides equal employment opportunities to all employees, contractors and applicants without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, genetic information, or veteran status.
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