SUSTA Trade Intern
Overview: This internship is funded by the Southern United States Trade Association (SUSTA) and under the direction of the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA). This position works exclusively on SUSTA-funded activities and is responsible for supporting the state’s international trade strategies related to agriculture, food, and beverages. SUSTA programs support trade between small to medium-sized southern U.S. companies and overseas importers.
Internship Description: The SUSTA intern in Texas will work with TDA to coordinate international trade activities in support of SUSTA’s overall mission. This role is focused solely on SUSTA-related initiatives, including outreach, research, and trade facilitation activities. Key responsibilities include:
- Recruit Texas-based agriculture, food, and beverage companies to participate in SUSTA programs including Global Events (Trade Missions, Trade Shows), and the 50%CostShare.
- Building and maintaining relationships with participating companies.
- Supporting SUSTA’s export promotion initiatives by:
- Conducting research on global agricultural markets;
- Analyzing country and product-level on international trade data and opportunities;
- Compiling summary reports on trade data and market trends; and
- Investigating trade barriers and opportunities in foreign markets.
- Maintain organized records and assist with data entry.
- Respond to emails and assist stakeholders involved in SUSTA activities.
Skills & Qualifications:
- Current undergraduate or graduate student with a focus in marketing or business; agricultural background preferred but not required. Students who have reached the midterm of their final semester are not eligible to apply.
- Strong administrative and communication (written and verbal) skills.
- Ability to successfully adapt to change and deliver quality results in a timely manner.
- Ability to work in a setting requiring self-motivation/cooperative decision-making.
- Ability to work effectively with diverse groups of people.
- Proficient with MS Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.