(SCC) — The Saipan Chamber of Commerce extends its sincere appreciation to the Public School System for its continued collaboration and support in making the Career Pathways Internship Program possible for students across the CNMI.
After two cohorts, and six different commitment tracks, the SCC proudly concludes its 2025–2026 Career Pathways Internship Program.
The final end-of-commitment ceremony was held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at a member establishment, Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan, celebrating 20 interns from Cohort 1 (11-month commitment) and Cohort 2 (6- and 9-month commitments).
The event recognized not only their successful completion of the program, but also their growth, resilience, and willingness to step beyond their comfort zones in pursuit of real-world career experience.
Since its launch on April 21, 2025, the program has supported 92 high school juniors and seniors across Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. While each student committed to varying internship lengths, all participants completed the program with strengthened confidence, practical skills, and a clearer vision for their future career pathways.
A key highlight of the program’s success is the transition of interns into employment, further demonstrating the value of work-based learning.
Among those hired were Destynee Aguon, who interned at PHI Pharmacy as a pharmacy aide, and earned a position through her consistency and dedication; Edward Becina, who continued his journey with Tupu Cane Juice after developing strong customer service and operational skills; Masaioshy “Masa” Sallem, who turned his passion for the culinary field into a role as a poke chef at Niao’s Poke Deli LLC; and Verica He, whose professionalism and work ethic during her internship at Niao’s Poke Deli LLC helped open new opportunities for her beyond the program at SP Dancoe & Associates.
Reflecting on their experiences, interns shared valuable advice for future participants. Jaren Fernandez, a 9-month administrative assistant intern with the Saipan Chamber of Commerce, shared, “Everything is going to be alright. It may not turn out as you expect, but you’ll learn so much through the process. Change is scary, especially stepping out of your comfort zone, but growth is what everyone needs.”
Similarly, Ashroy Mallik, a 6-month Consumer Merch intern with Marianas Pacific Distributors Inc., emphasized, “It’s always worth going for the experience in exchange for valuable skills. Don’t worry too much, the supervisors and staff are there to support you.”
“A vital part of what made the program so successful is our industry partners,” the Saipan Chamber of Commerce said.
“We dedicate our thanks to 28 of them for opening their doors and supporting our 92 interns. Your trust in our mission made it possible to celebrate today’s final batch of interns. We are hopeful for future collaborations. Our sincere appreciation goes to Paradise Dental, Commonwealth Communications, NMTech, Marpac, American Memorial Park, IT&E, Saipan Chamber of Commerce, Pacifica Insurance, Saipan Humane Society, CNMI Department of Labor-WIA, AP Group, Crowne Plaza, CNMI Department of Finance, 500 Sails, CNMI Department of Labor, Tupu Cane Juice, Icekiss Inc. dba Foremost Foods Saipan, Coca-Cola Beverage Co. (Micronesia) Inc., Transpacific Int’l Inc., Paradise Lyric House LLC, Insurance & Business Management Corporation, PHI Pharmacy, Bank of Saipan, CNMI Scholarship Office, CNMI Department of Commerce, Niao’s Poke Deli LLC, Marianas Press, and Atkins Kroll Saipan.
“We also extend our sincere thanks to our intern parents for their continued support of their children throughout the program, to the CNMI Public School System for their strong partnership and belief in our vision, and to our dedicated event volunteers, Catherine Pan and Kenny Zhang, for their time and efforts. We are also grateful to Crowne Plaza for their warm hospitality in hosting our final ceremony. Thank you all for helping us build local workforce capacity, one student at a time.
“As this cycle concludes, the Saipan Chamber of Commerce remains committed to building future opportunities and strengthening partnerships that empower the next generation of professionals across the CNMI. Community members are encouraged to stay connected and follow @saipanchamber on social media.
About the SCC
The Saipan Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization whose mission is to serve its members as a resource, enhancing the quality of business and life on Saipan. Its vision is to create an island where businesses, families, and communities succeed as one. To learn more about the Saipan Chamber of Commerce visit www.saipanchamber.com or contact us at 670-234-7150 or [email protected]
