AUBURN & OPELIKA, Ala.- FuelAL Auburn-Opelika has completed its first year with a successful program. This program brought together 40 university students from all over the country who interned in the Auburn-Opelika area over the summer. The cities of Auburn and Opelika teamed up to host events that provided the interns an opportunity to connect, learn and grow while gaining a better understanding of post-graduation opportunities available in the area.

FuelAL Auburn-Opelika was funded through a grant from the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA) and Innovate Alabama. It was also supported by the Opelika Industrial Development Authority and the Industrial Development Board of the City of Auburn. This marks the second year the City of Auburn has participated in the program, having partnered with Montgomery to showcase the area in 2023.

“The FuelAL program has been instrumental in one of our three pillars of workforce development, talent attraction,” said Amy Brabham, the City of Auburn’s Workforce Development director. “We are always looking for ways to keep young talent in our market, and this program allows us to showcase the fun things in Auburn and Opelika.”

The summer started with an orientation event at Tiger Town Sports. Attendees enjoyed a day filled with insightful talks from distinguished guest speakers, fun-filled activities and the chance to connect with peers and mentors in a relaxed and friendly environment. They gained unique insights from Auburn Mayor Ron Anders and Opelika Ward 5 City Councilman Todd Rauch.

Participants also visited Auburn University’s Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center. Interns had an exclusive opportunity to participate in a private cooking class with a renowned chef followed by a memorable evening of networking on the hotel's rooftop.

The group was fortunate enough to visit two local industries, Bonnie Plants in Opelika and RAPA in Auburn, where they were given behind-the-scenes tours and networking opportunities with industry executives.

“Another exciting event for the interns was a private tour of the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center at Auburn University. The students were given a private tour of the backstage areas, stage, amphitheater and pit area as well as an overview of the history and vision of the impressive venue. They ended the night with a private dinner at Amsterdam Café. We look forward to continuing this successful program in the future,” said Griffin O’Connor, project manager of Workforce Development, Opelika Economic Development.

The group had two athletic outings, including an exclusive look at Auburn University’s new Woltosz Football Performance Center and participating in a pickleball clinic and tournament at the Opelika Sportsplex.

Students were matched with local young professionals who acted as their mentors throughout the program. Each student also took the DISC personal assessment tool, which is designed to help improve teamwork, communication and productivity in the workplace. They received personal evaluation reports and were taught how to apply the results in their everyday lives.

FuelAL Auburn-Opelika hosted a graduation ceremony in downtown Opelika where the graduates celebrated their achievements with their bosses and mentors.

Those interested in participating in the program in 2025 are encouraged to keep an eye out for applications in spring 2025 at auburnalabama.org and opelika-al.gov.