CareerSource Tampa Bay Opens Employer Applications for 2026 Summer P.A.Y.S. Program 

CareerSource Tampa Bay Opens Employer Applications for 2026 Summer P.A.Y.S. Program

~ Hillsborough and Pinellas businesses invited to train the next generation of talent during  six-week paid internships ~

TAMPA, Fla. – CareerSource Tampa Bay (CSTB) is officially inviting employers to participate in the 2026 Summer P.A.Y.S. (Preparing Area Youth for Success) program. Formerly known as Tampa Bay Summer Hires in Hillsborough County, this signature initiative connects local businesses with motivated young adults (ages 15–24) for a summer of professional mentorship and hands-on experience.

As CSTB unifies its services across the region, businesses in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties are encouraged to apply to become worksite partners and help shape the future of the Tampa Bay workforce.

The 2026 Summer P.A.Y.S. program features a six-week paid internship running from June 2026 to July 2026.

Zero Payroll Cost to Employers: CSTB handles the recruitment, provides onsite coaching for supervisors, and covers the wages of the participants.

·        Youth Compensation: Participants will earn $15.00 per hour and work a maximum of 20 hours per week.

·        Preparation: Before starting their roles, all youth participants attend a comprehensive Youth Summit in early June to learn about workplace etiquette, hiring processes, and success strategies.

Employer Eligibility

To participate, businesses must be registered and located within Hillsborough or Pinellas Counties. While all industries are welcome to apply, CSTB is placing a strategic focus on high-growth sectors, including:

·        Healthcare & Life Sciences

·        Construction & Building Trades

·        Manufacturing & Logistics

·        Information Technology

·        Hospitality & Tourism

·        Financial & Shared Services

“Now in its eighth year, our summer youth program continues to be a cornerstone of our community impact,” said Kristal Feacher, Lead Business Development Manager at CSTB. “By rebranding to Summer P.A.Y.S., we are emphasizing our goal to prepare area youth for bright futures. This program provides local businesses with extra help at no cost while giving young people the world of work experience they need to launch their careers right here in Tampa Bay.”

How to Apply & Learn More

Employers interested in hosting interns must complete the online application at the following link: CareerSource Tampa Bay Summer PAYS Employer Application
For additional information, employers may contact Kristal Feacher at the following email address:  [email protected].  

Download the flyer here.

About CareerSource Tampa Bay 

Effective July 1, 2024, CareerSource Tampa Bay is the designated local workforce development board serving Hillsborough County and Pinellas County. CareerSource Tampa Bay is governed by a board of directors whose members are appointed by a consortium of Chief Local Elected Officials (CLEOs) from each county commission.

CareerSource Tampa Bay is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. All voice telephone numbers listed may be reached by persons using TTY/TDD equipment via the Florida Relay Service at 711.

CareerSource Tampa Bay is the direct service provider for various workforce programs which are supported by the U.S. Department of Labor, Health and Human Services, Agriculture, and other agencies as part of awards totaling $38,665,000 with 93% federally funded (Updated annually, as of September 2025).

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