INTERNSHIP

PROGRAM

I gained first-hand experience in the management of sustainable practices both in the field and manufacturing facilities, as well as participated in agricultural outreach events to engage the community in energy innovation and resource conservation. —Nik Crain B.S. Business Administration, B.S. Conversation and Resource Studies University of California, Berkeley"

I had the pleasure to work as a sustainable operations intern for Nikki through a college summer internship in 2012. During my four-month internship, I gained first-hand experience in the management of sustainable practices both in the field and manufacturing facilities, as well as participated in agricultural outreach events to engage the community in energy innovation and resource conservation. After expanding my analytical and reporting skill set during my time interning for Nikki, I built the knowledge and confidence to integrate the lessons learned when I returned to school to further my projects as a Communications Associate for the UC Berkeley Office of Sustainability & Energy. With a foundation in understanding the end-to-end value chain in the food industry, I joined Nestlé’s Supply Chain Leadership Development program, where I continued to grow my responsibilities as the Subject Matter Expert in measures and reporting in demand forecasting for the Prepared Foods and Baking division (+$2B annual sales). Nikki is a visionary leader, whose passion drives her ability to bring together different stakeholders to develop unique solutions. Nikki has remained a valuable mentor who I can continue to seek advice and learn from as I navigate my career. I look forward to seeing the exciting new endeavors that Nikki and the MTI team are building!
The work varied in type from simple data entry to critical thinking about sustainable farming practices or to holistic analysis of a company’s entire operation. That kind of variety only can be attained in a small company where there is a significant amount of trust within its employees. —Rebecca Graham, MS in Crop Science, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign"

I feel very fortunate to have worked for Nikki Rodoni and Measure to Improve, LLC (MTI). Nikki and her organization do really important work for the growers in Monterey County and all throughout the US, that is often overlooked. I am personally very passionate about sustainability in agricultural management and accuracy in data reporting, and during the interviewing process, we both realized that company was a perfect fit for me. My situation was unique, which is another testament to Nikki’s ability to recognize passion and retain employees regardless of circumstance because I worked remotely the entire time I worked for MTI. While I was finishing my Master’s Degree out of state, I was able to work on various important projects for her and we communicated via phone, email, video-conference, and the like. These projects not only helped me with an extra bit of income while I was a graduate student, but helped me stay connected with the agriculture industry in California, get some extra hands-on experience working directly with growers and processors, and learn to manage various projects, time-zones, and deadlines. The work varied in type from simple data entry to critical thinking about sustainable farming practices or to holistic analysis of a company’s entire operation. That kind of variety only can be attained in a small company where there is a significant amount of trust within its employees. I never dreaded completing any task that was sent my way because I always knew the value of my work, I was incredibly passionate about seeing the projects through, and Nikki who is an extremely respectful and motivating person to work for always thanked me for my efforts. As I start my career, a few years later, Nikki continues to help me in any way that she can whether it be through references, her network, or any advice she has. I am very glad for my time at MTI and I wish all the success in the world for Nikki and her company.
The internship provided me a greater understanding of what it is I have learned in the classroom and allowed me to apply it to real situations. — Andrew Kiemen, MA International Environmental Policy, Middlebury Institute of International Studies Monterey"

The Measure To Improve internship program gave me the opportunity to see so much more about the Sustainability field than I could learn in the classroom while pursuing my graduate degree. I was able to develop valuable skills while applying my knowledge to make regular contributions to multiple projects across different areas at MTI. The internship provided me a greater understanding of what it is I have learned in the classroom and allowed me to apply it to real situations. One of the most significant benefits that I received is the knowledge that I enjoy doing what it is I have studied. I highly recommend this fellowship; It is an excellent opportunity to gain practical skills and learn about the sustainability field!

MTI Internship Program

Measure to Improve, LLC offers internships that provide qualified individuals hands-on experiences within several areas of the organization. The MTI Internship Program provides an invaluable experience for a student pursuing a career in the sustainability field.

Applications are currently being accepted! To submit your resume and application, please see the full job descriptions below.

Company Mission

Measure to Improve, LLC’s mission is to help agricultural producers and processors measure, improve, and credibly promote their sustainability efforts. We believe the driving force behind sustainability starts with a good business case. We set out to discover the economic savings available to our clients through sustainability programs and to translate these programs’ environmental benefits. We show companies how to stay ahead of mandates and appeal to the growing segment of environmentally conscious buyers.

Expectations and Responsibilities

Interns will help monitor existing sustainability projects related to waste, water, energy, as well as other topics to assess opportunities for program expansions. Interns may also be asked to conduct site visits, develop training materials and other resources for new programs, and attend meetings with a variety of stakeholders.

Candidate Requirements

Interns should be self-motivated, diligent, passionate about sustainability in agriculture, and interested in learning to articulate the benefits successful sustainability programs can produce for companies. Candidates should have a working knowledge of agricultural production and/or a wiliness to learn; excellent written and verbal communication skills; active listening skills; and general knowledge of Microsoft Office programs.

Culture and Work

Measure to Improve, LLC is a small team of full-time and contracted staff who work both independently and as a team on multiple projects simultaneously. The atmosphere is casual, collaborative, focused, and motivated. Communication is key to keeping the team driving forward and successful.

Timeframe

Internships are designed to last between 6 and 12 months. Successful interns may have their time extended. Exceptional interns may be offered a staff position after that time.

Internship Mission

An internship with Measure to Improve, LLC provides professional growth and guidance to individuals pursuing careers that signify their passion for sustainable agriculture. The internships expose participants to the many facets of a consulting start-up, networking opportunities within the agriculture community, and direct experience on client projects.

Compensation

Based on applicant experience.

Check out our full job descriptions in the attached files!

Communications & Research Intern, Sustainability