The first Project SEARCH class is underway at All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg.

"We’re learning work skills, so I think it’s really good," said student, Elijah Shannon.

Project SEARCH is a new school-to-work internship for students with disabilities.

The program that focuses on 18-22-year-olds, is a joint effort between: All Children’s Hospital, PARC, Florida Vocational Rehabilitation and Pinellas County Schools.

Joe Conrod, Director of Diversity & Employee Relations at All Children’s Hospital said there aren’t many opportunities like this for people with disabilities.

"People with disabilities really have the highest unemployment rate, so we provide this opportunity for them because we really feel that the people from this are really hard workers, dedicated workers and they deserve a shot," said Conrod.

All Children’s says interns will work with a variety of people including a special education teacher, a job coach, vocational rehabilitation counselor and family members, to create employment goals that will help them transition from school to the workplace.

The new internship program starts with a 3-week orientation. After orientation, students work three 10-week rotations in various hospital departments.

Interns will help with cleaning duties in the Environmental Services Department.

In the Food Services Department, interns will work the food line and help keep the cafeteria clean.

Students will serve as an aid to therapists in Rehabilitation Services.

Interns are embracing the opportunity.

"I’m really excited, I’m ready to go," said Shannon.

"It’s great experience and I’m excited to be here," said student, Marlisha Cadogan.

Intern, Myia Horton already has her sights set on a certain job.

"I’m hoping that I’ll get to work at Winn Dixie when I finally finish."