DHS Grad Gains Hands-On Environmental Experience

Desert Hot Springs Graduate Gains Hands-On Environmental Experience Through South Coast AQMD Internship

RIVERSIDE COUNTY – Friday, Aug. 7, marked the completion of South Coast Air Quality Management District’s (AQMD’s) Governing Board Internship Programs for this year, which provided participating students an opportunity to gain experience in environmental and other careers, while learning and contributing to the organization’s mission. This year’s program began June 23rd and concluded today with a ceremony recognizing all students who successfully completed the program.

Among the participants was Chiaupahutli Calderon, who served as the appointed intern for Governing Board Member for Riverside County and Fourth District Supervisor, V. Manuel Perez. Chiaupahutli is a resident of Desert Hot Springs and a graduate of UC Riverside with a bachelor’s degree in environmental science.

“The AQMD internship program provided me he opportunity to gain hands-on experience that allows me to create positive environmental change within my community,” said Chiaupahutli. “Through this internship, I developed practical skills in field operations, learned about air monitoring equipment and collected environmental data. This internship aligned with my career goals by providing real-world experience in environmental management and regulation.”

A huge benefit to students enrolled in this paid program is access to hands-on training in specialized areas that match the students’ education and professional interests.

“I am very proud of Chiaupahutli for successfully completing the South Coast AQMD Governing Board Internship Program,” Supervisor V. Manuel Perez said in a statement “It is especially meaningful to see a young person from Desert Hot Springs take advantage of this opportunity, build upon her education and gain the practical experience that will help her make a positive difference in our communities.”

Peez represents the Fourth Supervisorial District on the Riverside County Board of Supervisors. The largest district in the county by geography, the 4th District covers eastern Riverside County, from Whitewater, stretching across the entire Coachella Valley south to the Salton Sea, up Highway 74 to Idyllwild and the mountain communities, and heading east of the Coachella Valley to Blythe and the Colorado River.