Oregon Facebook center takes on high school interns

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (AP) ? With their work carts in front of them, they walk along the rows of servers at Facebook's Prineville data center. They diagnose problems and change servers, playing a hand in keeping the social media company's system up and running.

The two teenagers aren't even out of high school. For the first time, Facebook has hired two students from Crook County High School for summer internships.

Shad Bennight and Nathaniel Stevenson, both 17, will be seniors this fall. Their summer jobs give them an opportunity to gain experience and work 40-hour weeks in a high-tech environment.

"We wanted to give some high school students some opportunities for a technology work setting," said Joshua Crass, the data center's manager. "Hopefully, they'll learn a lot about technology and working."

So far, that's already happening. After several days of training in June, the students were ready to replace servers on their own. They also help with other upgrades and installations of computers and networking equipment.

"It's been an interesting experience," Stevenson said. "I was pretty nervous the first day I was here. I've gotten more comfortable the longer I've been here."

Stevenson said the work atmosphere is relaxed, with plenty of freedom and flexibility for employees.

"It's not a normal work experience," he said. "It's a lot more fun."

In one server area, for instance, an oversize "like" button several feet wide lights up when pushed.

Stevenson plans to join the Navy after high school and work on aviation electronics and computer systems. He said the internship has been a good way to prepare.

Bennight said he's considering working in a field involving networking, hardware or servers. He said making the transition from being just another Facebook user to working for the company was eye-opening.

While the environment is relaxed, it's also professional, he said.

"I really had no idea what to expect in the first place, so a lot of it's been very surprising," Bennight said.

Before the two were hired, Crass approached Crook County High School's principal, Rocky Miner, and asked for help identifying students who would be good candidates.

Five students were selected. They went through an application process that entailed formal interviews, tours of the facility and required them to build a r?sum?.

"I was really happy with all these kids," Crass said.

He said he hopes to continue the program next year.

"It's fun for me because I enjoy teaching others and helping them learn and get ahead, especially when it comes to technology," Crass said. "Being a computer geek myself, I like teaching others about computers."

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Information from: The Bulletin, http://www.bendbulletin.com

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press

Source: http://www.kval.com/news/tech/Oregon-Facebook-center-takes-on-high-school-interns-162407036.html

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