OGLESBY – Illinois Valley Community College’s GRAINCO FS “Earn and Learn” program announced Albert Gutierrez of Streator as its first internship recipient.
Gutierrez is the son of Jose and Josefina Gutierrez and the fifth of six children. A 2021 graduate of Marquette Academy, he begins studies for his associate’s in agronomy this fall focusing on farming or a career as a field operations manager.
“After I graduate from IVCC I hope to begin working at GRAINCO FS full-time to build my life and family around this job,” Gutierrez said.
The “Earn and Learn” program is designed to offer interns hands-on experience with GRAINCO FS through two years’ tuition reimbursement, paid internships and summer jobs while they complete their AAS in Agronomy or Agricultural Business Management.
GRAINCO FS General Manager Alan Drake said, “We’re excited to partner with IVCC’s agricultural program to sponsor the ‘Earn and Learn’ program. We are looking forward to Albert beginning his career within our organization.”
GRAINCO FS Human Resources Manager Damon Neiggemann added, “‘Earn and Learn’ is a great opportunity for individuals to grow and develop their agricultural skills and experience, both through classroom and real-life, on-the-job training.
“I believe we have an excellent individual in Albert to represent the program in its inaugural year. We are excited to see what the future holds for him and all subsequent participants.”
Once Gutierrez successfully completes his agriculture studies at IVCC, he will be guaranteed three years of regular, full-time employment with GRAINCO FS.
“I hope to learn a lot at GRAINCO FS, help the company, and help both IVCC and the company bring more people in to the program,” he said.
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