This summer, high school students from across the Bay Area laced up their boots, took seats in boardrooms, and rose to the challenge in debate rooms – all as part of Project Pull, a paid, eight-week internship that pairs local youth with San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) employees for hands-on learning and mentorship. Here's a sampling of the interns' experiences:

Lazlo Hewitt

For Lazlo Hewitt, an incoming senior at Galileo Academy of Science and Technology, the experience was more than just a summer job. Interning with the Natural Resources and Lands Management Division in the Water Enterprise, he found himself in the field surveying eagle nests, learning about endangered butterflies, and visiting reservoirs that help supply water to the Bay Area. “Before this summer, I had no idea that a city job could involve hiking out to eagle nests or protecting endangered butterflies,” Lazlo said. “Project Pull helped me see careers I never would have considered before.” 

Throughout the summer, Lazlo shadowed biologists, watershed keepers, and land managers who showed how the SFPUC balances critical infrastructure needs like water and power with preserving native species and respecting cultural history. From lupine flagging for Mission Blue butterflies to understanding how dam elevation impacts water supply, Lazlo experienced a range of real-world projects that City workers tackle every day. He also appreciated the broader lessons Project Pull offered: “This program really taught me how to work on a team, communicate, and take initiative. It’s helped me grow personally and professionally.” 

Matthew Sugiyama and Maite del Real

Matthew Sugiyama and Maite del Real, students at Campolindo High School and the Ruth Asawa San Francisco School of the Arts, both interned with Community Benefits and described their experience as doing meaningful work with real impact. “I loved how hands-on the experience was. Whether I was analyzing data from the Southeast Community Center or designing zines about air quality, I was constantly challenged to think critically and contribute creatively,” said Matthew.

 

“This experience supported my learning goals and helped me get clarity on the kind of work I want to do and made me feel more confident about my future path,” shared Maite.

Raven La

Raven La interned with Digital and Power Communications. He said working with various mentors is what he enjoyed the most. “One lesson I learned was not to be afraid to ask for help when you're stuck or lost on something," he shared. 
 

Project Pull Celebrates its 30th Anniversary

This summer, the SFPUC welcomed 79 Project Pull interns. They participated in weekly professional development, built a network of peers and mentors, and engaged in a citywide debate project designed to sharpen their critical thinking and communication skills. They leave with new confidence, a clearer understanding of public service, and inspiration for the future. 

Project Pull is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. More than 2,400 students have completed the program, and many are now full-time city employees, some of whom work at the SFPUC. 

"I never cease to be amazed by the talented students that we continue to see come through Project Pull. The career pathways that this program creates and the talent that we recruit because of it is a beautiful thing," said Lisa Miles-Wilkerson, Project Pull Director. "Congrats to the class of 2025 and huge thank you to the mentors who shadowed and coached this year's students. I'm already looking forward to 2026!"