Kite industry internship opportunities???

Kay · Since 11 May 2009 224 Posts Portland Stoked

Hey guys

I'm looking around for internships for the summer and wanted to check in with the nwkite forum and see if anyone might know of a internship opportunity in the kite industry. (Hood River/White Salmon/Portland area)

I would love to combine my college degree and my hobby.

I'm a Junior at Portland State University working towards my Supply Chain Management Degree. I'm most likely going to double major with International Marketing as well.

If you know of anyone I can talk to or any opportunities I would really appreciate it if you could let me know.

Thanks

K

PS. I wouldn't mind other non kite related Supply and Logistics or Marketing internships if you know of any

sirmichaelo · Since 26 Mar 2010 353 Posts Maui Obsessed

Link

Kay · Since 11 May 2009 224 Posts Portland Stoked

.........

"No, I dont land kites. I'm a kite launcher."

I think this would require additional education. Maybe a master's degree?

mcsailor0303 · Since 18 Mar 2009 184 Posts The Dalles Stoked

My opinion for getting a good job in the vast world of windsports: Go to your favorite shop and ask for a job (and repeat until you get one). Amazing opportunities are all around this industry, but that is the best place to start! ...not to mention you'll have a blast!

Good luck - stay stoked!

lloyd · Since 16 Aug 2007 108 Posts Hood River Stoked

There are some big industry leaders with either corporate or distribution offices in the gorge.

Naish - North American distribution, Bingen, Washington
North Sports (North, North Kites and many more) - North American distribution, Bingen, Washington
Slingshot - Distribution and corporate offices (I believe), Hood River, Oregon
Chinook - They were in Cascade Locks, but don't know for sure anymore.

There are lots of composite/engineering businesses in town that support the unmanned airplane industry (ie Insitu). They do a lot of work with carbon based products.

Start pounding the street. I'm sure someone would love free help for the summer.

Sella · Tue Mar 06, 12 7:45 am

Knocking on doors is a good idea as everyone will try to help plus it's surprising how many wind companies near and far roam the Gorge. Also, get involved with the CGKA and KB4C. They always need help with events that will help with your own networking....plus....they are kiters just trying to have fun like you. Good luck!

WINDUDE · Since 10 Jun 2010 558 Posts GORGE! Addicted

all above is good info, but especially working in a shop, hell you will even get paid for it! You will learn lots about a variety of brands, see the retail side of how it all works, meet brand reps, get to use demo gear, I repeat, get to use new demo gear, and it is super fun!

good luck!

Kay · Since 11 May 2009 224 Posts Portland Stoked

Thanks guys for the great info. I think I will be contacting a few of the local companies with offices in the gorge.

I appreaciate the sugestion working for a kite shop but I want to also gain some experience related to Supply and Logistics so maybe that might not be a great fit.

Im a member of the CGKA so I'm going to see if I can help out with some of the events this summer.

Once again thanks for the suggestions, see you all on the water.

mschulz · Since 29 May 2007 530 Posts Reno, NV Addicted