Internship Program
See you in 2025!
The window for intern applications for the 2024 National Western Stock Show has closed. Applications for the 2025 Stock Show will be accepted starting in August 2024.
Students interested in participating in the 2024 National Western Stock Show are encouraged to check out our seasonal employment opportunities (opening November 1, 2023) or our Volunteer Page.
Contact Us
- 303-299-5501
- [email protected]
Important Dates
Applications Open: August 2024
Applications Close: October 2024
2025 Show Dates: Jan 11-26, 2024
Application Instructions
Applicants are required to submit a resume, cover letter, and reference page to be considered for any internship with National Western Stock Show.
To apply, click the link under the description of the placement you are most interested in. As a part of your application, you will also be asked to identify your second and third choices for placement - please be sure to select different areas!
Applications will be accepted August 21 - October 1, 2023. You will be contacted by a member of our team to schedule an in-person or virtual interview by October 21, 2023. Students selected for an internship will be notified by November 11, 2023. If selected, contact your academic advisor or department internship coordinator to register for internship credits. We realize that the Stock Show may overlap with the first week of spring classes; while professors are normally willing to work with you during this time, if selected as an intern, it is your responsibility to contact professors in advance and arrange any necessary make-up work before you leave for the Stock Show.
Wage & Salary Info
While this is an unpaid internship, NWSS will provide all interns with lodging, two meals per day, and select rodeo tickets. NWSS interns will be invited to special events throughout Stock Show and will have the opportunity to network with prominent business owners and leaders in the Colorado and Wyoming agriculture industry. Interns are responsible for their own transportation.
Available Positions
Number of positions: 2
Internship Dates: January 2 - January 21
Supervisor: Doug Brown, Supervisor of A/V Operations
Play a pivotal role in the dynamic world of Stock Show events, where your involvement spans from orchestrating grand spectacles like bustling cattle sales attended by up to 3,000 enthusiastic onlookers, to ensuring the seamless operation of our more intimate venues spotlighting individual talents and diverse performers. Your journey with us will encompass a range of responsibilities, from crafting the perfect setup to gracefully wrapping up each event.
Picture yourself in the midst of the action, assembling and dismantling microphones and compact PA systems. As you dip your toes into the realm of audio mixing, you will be collaborating with our valued vendors, forge connections, and contribute to the synergy that makes our events shine.
Harness the opportunity to engage with our skilled stagehands, each interaction a chance to build your network and gather captivating stories from the world of A/V production, but more importantly make connections with our vendors and be there for all the events at the Stock Show! We have a customer-centric approach and our punctuality & unwavering professionalism will elevate the attendee experience, leaving a lasting impression that's as vibrant as our events.
In this collaborative environment, we understand the demands of your academic journey. Thus, we're dedicated to tailoring your experience to seamlessly align with your school credit requirements, ensuring your growth is harmoniously balanced. Join us in the journey of crafting memorable events that captivate, entertain, and inspire – all while gaining invaluable insights into the captivating world of event production.
Number of positions: 2
Internship Dates: November 1 - January 31
Supervisor: Grace Weihs, Western Art Coordinator
Interns will have the opportunity to work with the Western Art Show Coordinator in planning and promoting events and art exhibitions. The ideal candidate will show an interest in event planning and social media management, have a flexible schedule, and be willing to learn something new. You don’t have to know much about art, or you could be an art student looking for real-world experience. No matter what your career pursuits are, the benefits are extensive. Tasks may include processing payments, assisting with art installation and deinstallation, preparing mailings, organization, social media planning, data entry, event planning and preparation, and other tasks as needed. Candidates should be familiar with social media platforms including Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, as well as word processing and spreadsheet programs. Experience with databases and point of sale systems is a plus but not necessary. Tasks include, but are not limited to:
- Creating social media posts and managing content.
- Website management, including uploading artwork and artist bios to the Coors Western Art website.
- Learning the Gallery Management System (GMS) and POS as well as the accounting system for NWSS to process payments.
- Helping with seating charts for major events as well as other major event set up and break down tasks.
- Coordinating with artists during artwork drop off and pick up.
- Making artwork labels, assisting the Coordinator with shipping logistics, monitoring the gallery during the Stock Show, and other projects as assigned.
Interns will work on two large events that raise money for the National Western Scholarship Trust: The Coors Western Art Exhibit Red Carpet Reception, which sees up to 1,000 guests who bid on artwork; and the Young Guns Reception, which is an immersive experience with art, music, and activities geared toward newer collectors. The Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale is one of the premier Western art exhibits in the country. It features esteemed contemporary artists working in a wide range of media. Two separate gallery spaces and several events allow collectors and spectators the opportunity to view and purchase work.
Interns will need to be available 1-2 days per week in November and 2-4 days per week in December through the beginning of Stock Show (January 6, 2024). Required late nights are December 7, 2023 and January 2-5, 2024. Required workdays are December 6-9, 2023 and January 2-5, 2024. The period from November through early January will require more time and effort than the Stock Show dates of January 6-21, 2024. Previous interns have chosen to stay on and help the Coordinator in the Art Gallery during Stock Show, or have found work with other service areas if they have other interests (this must be approved through that department prior to the start of Stock Show). Ideally, the candidate will be able to work at least 1-2 days the week after Stock Show, January 22-26, 2024, but this is not required if there are school commitments. Specific work dates and times will be coordinated with the final candidate.
Number of positions: 2
Internship Dates: December 4 - January 21
Supervisor: Shelby Rich, Education Manager
The Education Department works to promote education in agriculture at the annual National Western Stock Show by involving, engaging, and educating Stock Show guests and students through interactive activities, working closely with Colorado State University, Colorado FFA, 4-H, commodity groups, volunteers, and other educational entities.
This hands-on internship is an opportunity to gain experience with educational agriculture programs in a fast-paced and professional setting. Tasks are intended to provide the intern with a broad scope of event production and management responsibilities by facilitating over 10 events and exhibits throughout the 16-day show. This position can expect to work closely with Strategic Partnerships, Trade Show, Coors Western Art, contractors, volunteers, and staff. Day-to-day operations include the setup and execution of the following programs/exhibits:
- Murdoch’s Nursery
- Hutchison Western Pony Trails
- CSU Ag Adventure
- 7-Eleven Pony Rides
- King Soopers Petting Farm
- Ames Activity Pavilion
- Youth Art Contest & Exhibit
- Stock Show Tours
- Dairy Max
- School Visits
- Remarkable Roundup Rodeo
- Rodeo/PBR 101s and Rodeo Experiences
- Mile High Open Bid Calling Contest
This internship allows the candidate to gain real-world operations, logistics, project management, and event planning experience while providing the opportunity to network and gain lifelong industry connections. Ideal candidates have an interest in agriculture and project management. Interns may be asked to work 1-2 days per week from December 4, 2023 - January 1, 2024 with remote and in-office projects (flexibility offered around holidays). Interns will report daily from January 2 - January 21, 2024. Daily hours may exceed 8 hours per day leading up to and during NWSS, with some late nights and early mornings through the duration of January.
Preferred qualifications include:
- Eager to learn and work with various departments and personnel.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and readiness to learn data entry system.
- Ability to multitask and problem solve under tight deadlines.
- Self-starter with strong work ethic and integrity.
- High attention to detail and ability to think on their feet.
- Represent the Education department and organization in a professional capacity.
Number of positions: 3
Internship Dates: December 27 - January 21
Supervisor: Mikayla Morrison, Director of Human Relations & Hiring
The National Western’s Department of Human Relations (HR) is dedicated to supporting the National Western Stock Show’s goals through its most valuable resource – its PEOPLE. During the National Western Stock Show, our department is tasked with recruiting, hiring, and onboarding over 500 seasonal employees to assist in various departments including Livestock, Event Operations, and Guest Relations.
During their time with the HR Department, interns will work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment to assist in a variety of HR disciplines including recruiting, onboarding, talent management, and employee relations. Interns will receive hands-on experience with applicant tracking systems, human resource information systems, and internal reporting databases as well as getting lots of practice in face-to-face, telephone, and email communications with people from all walks of life and employees at all levels of the organization, from seasonal employee to CEO.
Interns will report directly to the Director of Human Relations & Hiring and will work closely with the HR Coordinator. While this internship will primarily focus on recruiting, hiring, and employee relations, the Human Relations Department will strive to expose interns to various areas of the HR function to give them as well-rounded an experience as possible. Typical duties will include:
- Interacting with job candidates via phone, email, and in person; answering questions and assisting candidates in finding the position and schedule that will work for them.
- Assisting candidates with application and all new-hire paperwork.
- Completing criminal background checks and submitting E-Verify cases; reviewing information with HR Director to make best business decisions.
- Entering pertinent information in the HR Information System in a timely and thorough manner. Double-checking all entries and auditing the work of other members of the HR team to ensure accuracy.
- Working closely with Department Heads and Administrators to determine current staffing needs, prioritizing key positions when interacting with candidates.
- Welcoming all new hires to Stock Show and ensuring they have everything they need to get started on the right foot.
- Serving as a resource to all employees who have questions regarding their timecards, pay, or other employee relation issues.
- Selling meal vouchers.
- Developing recruiting methods for year-round and seasonal staff.
- Assisting the HR Director with the management of the NWSS Intern Program, including the Intern/Intern Alumni Facebook page.
The ideal candidate has strong written and verbal communication skills, works well under pressure, and enjoys interacting with large amounts of people. Applicants should be well-organized, detail-oriented, and have great people skills. Candidates should be proficient in Microsoft Office and have an interest in human resources, business administration, organizational development, and/or leadership, regardless of their current degree path.
Interns will need to be available to start in mid-to-late December (we can be flexible based on school schedules and holidays). Interns should plan to work up to 10-hour days through December and up to 12-hour days through Stock Show, including weekends. End dates and days off can be scheduled on an individual basis with the Director of Human Relations & Hiring.
Number of positions: 2
Internship Dates: November 1 - January 23
Supervisor: Gina Silletto, Executive Assistant to the President & CEO
Join the Executive Office team with an excellent opportunity for students to learn a variety of professional skills and network with industry professionals. Executive Office interns will be at all 29 rodeo performances to help manage the President’s Box and VIP guests, attend several high-profile events such as Coors Western Art Blue Jean Preview and Red-Carpet Reception, the Mayor and City Council dinner, and the Red Meat Club dinner. Students seeking this internship should be flexible and willing to jump into a variety of tasks, possess customer service skills, and are able to perform in fast-paced environments.
Tasks include:
- Managing and tracking guests in the International Room.
- Assisting at the Reception Desk- greeting visitors, answering phones, answering questions, and distributing membership orders.
- Hospitality in the Presidents Box- cleaning before and after performances, helping greet and assist VIP guests.
- Facilitating guests on the hitch during the rodeo.
- Checking in at the National Western Club with volunteers, members, and guests.
- Attending award presentations (coronation of Ms. Rodeo Colorado, Red Meat Club, etc.).
- Assisting with ticketing for the CEO section above the bucking chutes.
- Supporting Membership with member orders, Members Preview Night, etc.
- Various office tasks, including mailing documents and printing items.
- Jumping in to help wherever and however is needed!
The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, efficient, friendly, and detail-oriented. This candidate should have strong customer service and problem-solving skills and must be able to maintain a calm, professional demeanor under pressure. Applicant must have a solid understanding of Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel [mail merge], and Outlook. Most importantly, this individual must be able to have fun and keep an upbeat attitude! Candidates studying business administration, event planning, project management, or communication would be ideal.
This internship will consist of a (possible) 1-2 days per week in November and December and must be available to work the Members Preview Night on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 (10:00am-10:00pm), and 10+ hour days January 1-21, 2024. If the student is not local to the Denver area remote work can be arranged prior to the beginning of Stock Show.
Number of positions: 3
Internship Dates: November 1 - January 21
Supervisor: Chloe Mercardante, Capital Campaign Assistant
The campaign is seeking candidates to assist with social media, day-to-day tasks, and event support during Stock Show. Applicants should be excellent with time management, outgoing and friendly, detail-oriented, and proficient with Microsoft Office. Must have strong written and communication skills, problem-solving skills, and a positive attitude. Stock Show experience is preferred, but not required. Some duties and responsibilities are as follows:
- Replenish materials at Campaign Headquarters every day.
- Operate campaign booth at Campaign Headquarters and other areas, providing information on the campaign and various mini campaigns.
- Make small transactions on the spot using iPads and mobile payment terminal.
- Track sales and any new gifts/pledges and create reports as needed.
- Provide confirmation emails to guests and visitors.
- Greet guests and provide directions.
- Prepare guest lists and event materials.
- Upload new constituents and attributes to database.
- Send follow up communications via email.
- Fold inserts and stuff packets.
- Produce new and creative posts daily for various social media channels including Instagram and Facebook.
- Provide support and help with special event coordination.
This intern may be asked to work 1-2 days per week from November 1, 2023 – January 1, 2024 (with flexibility). Interns will be expected to report daily from January 2 – January 21, 2024.
About the campaign: The National Western Center represents a visionary transformation of the National Western Complex into a year-round destination that will not only provide a home to the incomparable National Western Stock Show for the next 100 years, but will also expand and enhance this regional asset into a world-class hub for agriculture, education and innovation. The $100 million Honoring the Legacy campaign will provide support for many of the buildings and outdoor spaces needed to help this landmark of the West reach its full potential.
Number of positions: 4
Internship Dates: October 16 - January 21
Supervisor: Kendra McConnell, Horse Show Manager
The National Western proudly hosts top equestrian athletes of various disciplines from across the nation as part of the Horse Show. The Horse Show Department continues to be a premiere destination for competitors and equine enthusiasts alike through our wide variety of competitions and ticketed performances. The Horse Show interns will be exposed to various aspects of horse show management and event production and promotion, as well as have the opportunity to network and build lifelong connections within the industry. Interns who are completing/have completed the summer Equine Event Internship will be given priority.
NWSS strives to provide a meaningful experience while also allowing the interns to support the overall goals of the Horse Show Department by using core disciplines like data entry, organization, leadership, interpersonal skills, social media, graphic design, video editing, interviewing, content generation, and live event production skills. Applicants should possess effective verbal and written communication skills, organizational skills, strong work ethic and integrity, an attention to detail, an understanding of social media platforms, ability to cope with pressure, flexibility, ability to think on their feet and an enthusiastic attitude.
The following tasks are intended to provide the interns with a broad scope of the event production, promotion, and management responsibilities of the Horse Show Department. Interns should be flexible and prepared to assist with other projects and tasks as assigned:
- Assist in the Horse Show Office utilizing the database to verify entries, check in exhibitors, sell credentials and answer questions.
- Assist show secretaries with verifying judges’ cards and results and collecting and copying scoresheets.
- Ensure performers and invitational event participants submit a Horse Health Declaration prior to receiving credentials and competition numbers.
- Generate, send and monitor exhibitor surveys.
- Manage inventory efforts of multiple areas including awards, back numbers, office supplies, gifts, etc.
- Support staff by assisting in multiple areas including scribing, stalling, paddock, etc.
- Create materials such as nametags, QR codes, signs, digital patterns, etc.
- Update the website with results, important documents, announcements, etc.
- Communicate with and interview staff and exhibitors for edited video and written stories.
- Prepare and disburse exhibitor gifts.
- Contribute to the production and event teams by attending production meetings and rehearsals, updating scripts and show flows, delivering credentials, greeting anthem singers, etc.
- Support set up and tear down of various events.
- Develop social media content and design various graphics that support the social media strategy.
- Consistently update website with results, important documents, announcements, etc.
- Update media guides with draws, entries, show history, and information.
- Ensure event recaps, photos, and results are submitted in a timely fashion.
- Take photos and videos to support recaps, stories, blogs, e-blasts, social media, and website content.
- Generate content for and prepare e-blasts.
- Communicate with and interview staff and exhibitors.
- Collaborate with staff and volunteers to collect multimedia content.
- Assist with additional tasks to support the Horse Show.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Eager to learn and work with various departments and personnel of the organization.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Adobe products, social media and website platforms and readiness to learn data entry system.
- Ability to multitask.
- Copes well under pressure.
- Ability to represent the Horse Show Department in a professional capacity.
- Previous live event production experience is requested but not mandatory.
- Working knowledge of various communication aspects including graphic design, social media platforms, video editing software, e-blast programs, and websites.
- Ability to utilize video calling software including Zoom and Teams.
- Access to a high-quality camera and video and/or photo editing software is requested but not mandatory.
Interns will need to be available a minimum of 8 hours per week beginning October 16, 2023 and full time January 1 – January 21, 2024. Daily hours may exceed eight (8) hours leading up to and during the Stock Show, with some late nights and weekends required.
Number of positions: 15
Internship Dates: January 2 - January 22
Supervisor: Jenn Boka, Director of Livestock Operations
Assistant Supervisor: Alyssa Cure, Livestock Operations Assistant
The Livestock Operations internship is geared towards those applicants interested in learning how to work, manage, and execute livestock shows & sales at a national, elite level. Interns will work with open & junior breeding cattle, pen & carload cattle, sheep, goats, hogs, llamas, poultry, and more. Many of these species and breeds are overseen by national or local organizations with which interns have the opportunity to network & work alongside. Daily duties may include clerking and reporting auctions & sales, helping on-site veterinarians, working in the feed and satellite offices, operating webcasting cameras/computers, and assisting NWSS show managers with miscellaneous tasks. Attention to detail, computer skills, and a high level of professionalism are crucial. Interns will enter data, process livestock & paperwork, collect health papers, verify information, and communicate with exhibitors via phone, email, and in the barns. This position requires a lot of work both inside and out and covers the span of our entire campus – so be prepared for lots of steps and long days! Interns may be asked to work a few days before the beginning of show (to be discussed with show management) but should expect to work every day from January 2-21, 2024.
Number of positions: 3-4
Internship Dates: December 1 - January 22
Supervisor: Karen Woods, Senior Director of Marketing & PR
Interns will serve as a member of the Marketing Team assisting with all aspects of marketing and communication for the 2024 National Western Stock Show. Responsibilities include helping to promote the event through marketing materials, ticket offers/promotions, website information and updates, all NWSS social media platforms, digital newsletters, and the Stock Show Parade.
Duties will include:
- Utilizing the digital newsletter program Constant Contact to build e-blast content and execute sponsor fulfillment for the NWSS Stock Show Insider to 130k subscribers throughout Show.
- Creating and helping to manage Stock Show Todays, horse show programs, website blog posts, daily event schedules with included sponsors, print deadlines, ticket sales initiatives, and promotions.
- Assisting with Stock Show events, social media posts, “Guest of the Day” selection and execution, media interviews, etc.
- Assisting local and industry media, press, and news outlets in support of promotional and news coverage of NWSS.
- Helping with credential requests, distribution of media credentials, setting up media interviews/photo opportunities, and developing content for live newscasts.
- Writing press releases, daily bulletins, daily event sheets, and general media lounge duties.
- Acting as the liaison between marketing and rodeo media operations.
- Helping with Stock Show media events, including Media Appreciation Party.
We are looking for candidates who can work in a fast-paced environment, have an outgoing personality, are creative thinkers and can work well under tight deadlines. Must have strong written and oral communication skills. Candidates must be an active user of Microsoft Office, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, Twitter and TikTok social media platforms.
Preferred abilities include:
- Familiarity in building and creating TikTok and Instagram reels.
- Experience in email marketing programs like Constant Contact.
- Working knowledge of the Adobe Creative Suite.
Number of positions: 2
Internship Dates: December 27 - January 22
Supervisor: Caroline Lukens, Rodeo Operations Coordinator
The Rodeo Operations team plans and produces twenty-nine (29) ticketed rodeo events, including three (3) Colorado vs the World Rodeos, twenty (20) PRCA Pro Rodeos, three (3) Professional Bull Ridings (PBR), two (2) Mexican Rodeo Extravaganzas, and one (1) MLK Heritage Rodeo. The Rodeo Operations interns will be exposed to many aspects of rodeo planning, production, and logistics. Ideal candidates are self-starters, adaptable, customer service savvy, punctual, and professional.
Interns will help with the general production and planning of Colorado vs. the World, PRCA, PBR, MLK, and Mexican Rodeo Extravaganza rodeos by assisting in pre-event logistics; assisting rodeo personnel during performances; supporting rodeo volunteers; and assisting in rodeo education activities. Responsibilities may also include assisting in the creation of day sheets, updating rodeo results, coordinating logistics of features, and various other rodeo production functions.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Eager to learn & take initiative
- Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and environment
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to multitask & problem-solve
- Copes well under pressure
- Comfortable working both independently and with a team
- Ability to walk and stand for extended periods of time
- Well-versed in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, etc.)
Rodeo interns may also support rodeo media, horse show, sponsorship and various other functions of the National Western during their internship.
These interns will need to be available to work from December 27, 2023 – January 22, 2024. Daily hours may exceed eight (8) hours leading up to and during the NWSS, with late nights and weekends required. The start date may be adjusted earlier based on availability and proximity to Denver, CO.
Number of positions: 1
Internship Dates: December 11 - January 21
Supervisor: Ashley Fischietto, Events Manager
We are seeking candidates with a passion for event planning and project management! This position will assist in the preparation and execution of several prestigious events that occur during Stock Show, including the Citizen of the West dinner and Junior Livestock Auction. The Citizen of the West dinner will host 1,000 guests at a cocktail reception, sit-down dinner, and awards program. The Junior Livestock Auction is an exhilarating, live broadcast event with 800+ guests bidding on prize livestock. Both events support the National Western Scholarship Trust, which awards 110 scholarships annually to students studying agriculture, rural medicine, and veterinary science.
Responsibilities for this internship include but are not limited to:
- Coordinate with internal staff, clients, vendors, committee members, and others to establish needs for events.
- Complete accounting administrative work (invoicing, payments, purchase orders, etc.).
- Manage event registrations pre-event.
- Create and manage floorplans and seating diagrams.
- Attend committee meetings and walkthroughs.
- Complete data entry as needed.
- Complete mass mailings (invitations, pre-event information, National Western Stock Show collateral, etc.).
- Coordinate with event vendors.
- Provide event setup and execution support.
The intern for this position must be a self-starter and problem solver with efficient time management skills and an excellent customer service attitude. The position requires high attention to detail, an ability to multitask, and knowledge of computer applications (Microsoft Suite and Outlook). In return for hard work and dedication, the intern in this role will gain real-world event planning and project management experience, which are skill sets that can be applied in a variety of future careers. This intern will need to be available 8 hours per week beginning early December 2023, and full-time January 2-21, 2024.
Number of positions: 2
Internship Dates: November 1 - January 22
Supervisor: Jessica Salrin, Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships
The National Western Stock Show Strategic Partnership interns hold a temporary position with an emphasis on gaining educational and practical business experience in a professional setting. These interns will gain valuable experience working with all members of the Strategic Partnership team in an environment full of learning opportunities designed to help interns develop their capabilities and challenge their strengths.
Strategic Partnership interns will assist the team by executing partnerships with regional and national brands with a focus on delivering the highest-level experience for our clients. Interns will gain a broad perspective of behind-the-scenes event activation with a focus on developing strong external business relationships. Interns will learn about management, sales, deliverables, and customer service.
Primary responsibilities will include:
- Understanding the details of each partnership to ensure all accounts are fulfilled with the highest level of professionalism, attention to detail, and focus on their end goal.
- Assisting with the activation of each element of partner's contract.
- Representing the National Western Stock Show throughout the 16-day event with the highest level of respect and professionalism.
- Providing assistance in the office with any partner-related responsibilities.
- Setting up and managing partner activation throughout event, as needed, including during rodeo performances.
- Learning and implementing the activation process including execution, capturing the details of the event, and building the recap document as a proof of performance to the client.
Candidates must have strong administrative, communication, and interpersonal skills, and show an interest in business marketing and how businesses align themselves with an event such as Stock Show. Must possess problem solving skills, be a self-starter, have efficient time management skills, and should be knowledgeable with Microsoft computer applications. Intern may be asked to work 1-2 days a week from November 1, 2023 – January 1, 2024 (flexibility offered around holidays, with some tasks that may be completed remotely from home). Interns will report daily from January 2 – January 21.