Spectrum launches internship amid layoffs
LOUIS, UNITED STATES — Telecommunications and mass media company Spectrum recently introduced a new internship program for high school students in St. Louis, Missouri, that offers practical work experience in customer service.
The internship program trains students as call center representatives, assisting customers with internet and phone service issues.
Interns also earn $18.50 an hour and receive benefits. They also have the option to transition to full-time positions post-graduation, which includes tuition assistance and other perks.
One enrollee, Kamryn Hufstedler, expressed her enthusiasm for the program, stating that it prepared her to interact with customers and act professionally.
Another high school student, Anabel Rico, said that the internship helped her learn communication skills and how to speak confidently with customers.
However, while the student interns see a bright future at Spectrum, the company is also navigating layoffs.
Charter Communications, Spectrum’s parent company, is closing a residential inbound sales call center in Morrisville, North Carolina, which will affect 67 workers.
Senior human resources director Dilys Hamilton-Bryan confirmed that the terminations will begin on May 28. The company plans to offer severance packages to those leaving, including salary continuation and health insurance contributions.
Around 85% of the affected employees had also been offered alternative positions at a new video repair center.
The call center handles inquiries from people interested in Spectrum Internet, mobile, cable TV, or Voice offerings.
Despite the layoffs, Charter Communications continues to be a major employer in North Carolina, with approximately 11,800 employees. The company reported a revenue of $54.6 billion in 2023.
Just last year, Spectrum launched its newest Spectrum Mobile customer service call center in Amherst, New York, creating 400 new local customer service roles.
