The San Francisco 49ers internship program gives young professionals hands-on experience in the sports industry while helping them build valuable connections. As part of the organization's Fans for Life initiative, the program provides hands-on experience, mentorship, and professional development opportunities that prepare interns for careers in the sports industry. Each intern contributes to the team's success while building meaningful connections and gaining exposure to various departments within the organization.
In this recap, we're spotlighting the 2024 San Francisco 49ers intern class: their career paths, contributions to the organization, and advice for those looking to break into the sports industry.
Kathy Ventura - Brand and Fan Engagement
Can you share a memorable project or moment that had a significant impact on you?
- This experience was significant from the start of my academic journey, I set my sights on working in the NFL/49ers, so achieving this goal was more than just a dream come true—it was the result of determination, persistence, and a fearless mindset. This internship held immense value, as I played a key role in enhancing the international fan experience, and along the way, I had the privilege of meeting incredible individuals and creating unforgettable memories.
How has this experience shaped your future career goals?
- This experience has shaped my future career goals by analyzing that while my next step may not be in the same field, it will be a role where I can continue learning new skills and building on the ones I've developed. It's taught me that career paths aren't always linear and that every opportunity brings something valuable. I'm now more intentional about my goals and open to adapting them as I grow in new ones and areas of opportunity and expertise.
What's one unexpected thing you learned while interning with the 49ers?
- One of the most unexpected and incredible experiences during my internship was shadowing the gameday presentation team and getting the chance to be part of everything behind-the-scenes. Additionally, I was able to shadow the player walkouts! I was right there as the team carried the boombox, hyping up each other as they made their entrance. Seeing how the players truly lock in before hitting the field was incredible—the focus and energy were unmatched. The entire atmosphere was electric, and it was surreal to be so close to that moment. I'll never forget the intensity and excitement of that experience!
Trevor Fleming - 49ers Foundation
What was your favorite part about working with the 49ers organization?
- My favorite part about working with the 49ers organization was being part of a truly world-class organization that made me feel like an equal, even as an intern. From day one, I felt valued and supported by everyone I worked with. I had the opportunity to meet so many amazing people, from front office staff to community members, who inspired me both personally and professionally. During my time here, I achieved lifelong dreams and created moments I never would've imagined possible. I'm incredibly grateful to have been part of the 49ers family.
What was the most valuable lesson you learned during your internship with the 49ers?
- The most valuable lesson I learned during my internship with the 49ers is that anything is possible. Working in football has been a dream of mine since I was a kid, and this year, I finally made the pros! Just a few years ago, I felt like I had no direction, unsure of where my path was headed. To now be able to say I've made it to the NFL is a dream come true, and it's only motivated me even more to chase what's next. This experience showed me that with hard work, belief, and the right people around you, no dream is out of reach!
If your internship had a slogan, what would it be?
- Whatever the role, whatever it takes. For the community, for the culture, for the next generation!
Caden Cortese - Accounting
What was your favorite part about working with the 49ers organization?
- My favorite part of working with the 49ers organization was contributing to the Foundation. Being able to make a direct impact on the community through the 49ers brand—and what it means to the fans—was an unforgettable experience. As someone who grew up dreaming of being part of this organization, the opportunity to now play a role in its meaningful work feels truly profound. Knowing that I helped contribute to its legacy means the world to me, and it's something I'll always cherish.
What was the most valuable lesson you learned during your internship with the 49ers?
- The most valuable lesson I learned during my internship with the 49ers was the transformative power of getting comfortable with being uncomfortable—much like a rookie stepping onto the field for the first time, facing the roar of the crowd. Working with the Foundation, I discovered that real growth happens when you embrace uncertainty, whether it's tackling ambitious community initiatives or navigating high-pressure team projects. This taught me to lean into challenges with confidence, think creatively under pressure, and lead with resilience, ensuring I could contribute meaningfully to the 49ers mission. It's a mindset I'll carry forward, forever shaped by this unforgettable experience.
If you could describe your 49ers internship experience in a touchdown celebration, what would it be?
- If I could describe my 49ers internship experience in a touchdown celebration, it would be the 'Foundation Leap'—a high-energy jump into the air, arms outstretched like I'm reaching for the community we served, followed by a heartfelt bow to the crowd, symbolizing the fans and the impact we made TOGETHER. It captures the thrill of overcoming challenges, the joy of contributing to the 49ers legacy through the Foundation, and the connection I felt to the team and my home the Bay Area.
Julia Lira - Business Strategy and Analytics
What was the most valuable lesson you learned during your internship with the 49ers?
- The most valuable lesson I learned was the importance of having a team mentality. Think creatively and strategically with the team's success in mind. Lead by example, show up for your teammates, and communicate with their best interests at heart.
What advice would you give to future 49ers interns?
- My advice to future interns would be to make the most out of this experience! Take the time to connect with not only people across the organization but also with your fellow interns. Your cohort is an essential part of your network, and there's a good chance you'll cross paths with them again in your career.
What's one unexpected thing you learned while interning with the 49ers?
- A fun fact I learned during my time with the business strategy and analytics team was that 49% of 49ers fans are dog owners (according to YouGov Profiles January 2025).
Mason Elefant - Digital Marketing
What was the most valuable lesson you learned during your internship with the 49ers?
- Always be open to saying yes! You're not expected to know exactly what you want to do for your career, but the best way to discover your interests is by embracing new opportunities. This opens up so many doors for you to gain valuable experience and develop those new skills.
What skills or knowledge did you gain that you'll take with you in your career?
- One of the most valuable skills I gained this internship was workplace communication. Being able to adapt to different communication styles and work smoothly with different teams has a huge impact for yourself and everyone else. If you're able to be fluid with everyone you work with and adapt to their approach it will take you so far. This, along with being open to building those genuine relationships will not only help you on the day-to-day in your job, but as you further develop your career!
If your internship experience was a football play, what would it be called?
- If my internship experience was a football play, it would be a run-pass option. Just like in an RPO, where the QB has to quickly read the defense and make the best decision in the moment, I had to stay adaptable and ready to pivot at any time. This included very important choices like what suit to wear for a game or figuring out a 49ers player's celebrity lookalike.
Preston Anderson - Corporate Communications
Can you share a memorable project or moment that had a significant impact on you?
- The most memorable project from this past season was working on the team's international media efforts. This project had a significant impact on me as I had never worked with international media before, and I got to learn more about what types of stories are published in these markets. I worked directly with our players to make sure these requests were fulfilled. This opportunity also allowed me to work with both our business and football side of the organization. I loved collaborating with our Integrated Marketing and Football Communications teams and developing interesting stories for our international media partners.
How has this internship helped you grow professionally and personally?
- I feel like I became a better relationship builder. Having good relationships with members of the media, 49ers players and executives, and colleagues was so important to being successful in this role. I learned a lot about having to work with different personalities in order to fulfil our media needs.
If you could switch roles with anyone in the organization for a day, who would it be and why?
- I would have to say Terrell Lloyd because he was always doing something interesting. I always loved talking with him in the office or on gamedays and learning about his experiences working for the 49ers and the sports industry. He really loves what he does and is always eager to share his passion with others. His energy and enthusiasm were contagious, and you could tell how much he genuinely cared about his work and the people around him.
Madison Vick - Community Relations
How has this internship helped you grow professionally and personally?
- As the 49ers Community Relations Intern, this experience has been invaluable to my professional and personal growth. Professionally, I've developed my event and relationship management skills, focusing on communication, time management, organization, and adaptability—key for coordinating community events and engaging stakeholders. Personally, this internship has deepened my cultural, social, and professional empathy. Working with diverse communities has broadened my perspective and strengthened my ability to build relationships at all levels, helping me grow into a more adaptable, empathetic, and detail-oriented individual.
What was the most valuable lesson you learned during your internship with the 49ers?
- The most valuable lesson I learned during my internship with the 49ers is the importance of building strong, authentic relationships with both your coworkers and the community. Whether working with fans, community groups, or your colleagues, I realized that fostering trust and genuine connections is key to success. This lesson has shown me that collaboration, clear communication, and a focus on shared goals can create lasting positive impact. It's a reminder that, no matter the project or challenge, strong relationships are at the core of every successful initiative. The people truly make the place, and at the 49ers, this couldn't be more true.
If you could describe your 49ers internship experience in a touchdown celebration what would it be?
- If I could describe my 49ers internship in a touchdown celebration, it would be a mix of excitement and unity—starting with an energetic spike, followed by a team huddle to share the moment. It's a celebration of collaboration and the connections I've made with both my coworkers and the community. Then, I'd run to the stands, handing the ball to a fan in need, seeing the joy light up their face. That genuine connection represents just a glimpse of the special moments I was part of this season. It's all about celebrating the journey, the teamwork, and the impact we make together!
Jonathan Louie - Membership Services
What was your favorite part about working with the 49ers organization?
- My favorite part about working with the 49ers was its people! Many teams boast about their team culture and work experience, but the Niners organization is truly one of a kind. The opportunity to collaborate and learn with such hard-working, kind, and brilliant individuals was so rewarding day in and day out. Special thanks to the Membership Service Team in particular for taking the time to invest in my personal and professional growth throughout my internship experience!
What advice would you give to future 49ers interns?
- For the future 49ers interns, remember that an attitude of gratitude goes a long way. So often we get caught up in the busyness of life and we forget that it is a privilege to work with the 49ers, let alone in the sports industry. Take time to network with those around you, even if they're not on your direct team. The relationships that you build ultimately help mold and shape the person you are today. Use each day as a learning experience, even when it feels like you've hit a roadblock. The work that you put in does not go unnoticed, especially if it is rooted in integrity, authenticity, and kindness.
Who on the 49ers staff would you draft first for your dream team and why?
- Out of the 49ers staff, I'd draft Brandon Lohmann first, who is the current Senior Director of Membership Service. He is extremely well-spoken, thoughtful, and detail-oriented. Brandon leads our team with intentionality and challenges us to better ourselves every day and combat complacency. All in all, he is someone you want on your team—and his mentorship has played a pivotal role in my experience with the 49ers!
Elise Fore - Studios Production
Can you share a memorable project or moment that had a significant impact on you?
- My experience with the 49ers organization has been truly rewarding, and without a doubt, the best part has been the amazing people I've had the privilege of meeting. Throughout my internship, I've been fortunate to learn from outstanding mentors who not only provided valuable guidance but also truly invested in my growth. What stands out most to me is the genuine sense of community and camaraderie here. It's a well-known saying that the people make the place, and at the 49ers, this sentiment rings especially true. The passion, dedication, and kindness of everyone I've encountered have made this internship an unforgettable experience and have left a lasting impact on me.
How has this experience shaped your future career goals?
- This experience allowed me to shape my career goals by helping me realize my passion for creating meaningful content. From cinematic game recaps to player mic'd up videos to covering community relations events, each piece strengthened my love for this job. This job helped instill confidence and project management skills in me and helped me realize that this is a field where I can grow and thrive as a female videographer.
If your internship experience was a football play, what would it be called?
- If my internship experience was a football play, I would call it the Highlight Reel Blitz. It's a fast-paced play with massive highlights, just like a highlight reel that showcases the best moments of the game. During my internship, I was working behind the scenes (in the backfield) creating content for fans similar to how a blitz is a surprise move that changes the momentum of the game.
Jerika D'Acquisto - Game Presentation & Live Events
Can you share a memorable project or moment that had a significant impact on you?
- Being trusted by my manager with the opportunity to assist in coordinating the flyovers for the 49ers home games was one of the most memorable parts of my internship. It was incredible to learn about the intricate details that go into planning each flyover. One moment, in particular, stood out: during the fourth quarter of the game against the Bears, we executed our Flyover Recognition hit on the field. This was especially memorable because, as the US Navy personnel were waving to the camera in the end zone, 49ers legend Jerry Rice ran over to surprise them and pose for a photo. Seeing their faces light up with joy and excitement in that instant was something I will never forget. They later said it was one of the top highlights of their lives. It's easy to get caught up in the next task, but that moment reminded me of how powerful a single experience can be for others. The military are everyday heroes and having a small hand in creating a moment like that is something I will carry with me forever.
What was your favorite part about working with the 49ers organization?
- The 49ers organization is a team both on and off the field. My favorite part of working for the organization was being surrounded by people who shared a common goal: making an impact. You can feel the passion and drive from the moment you step into the office or stadium. Curiosity and creativity seem to bounce off the walls. I feel incredibly lucky to have had such strong leaders in my department who pushed and challenged me to be my best every day. They understood the power of those 10 seconds—how one moment could create a lifetime of memories. Above all, my favorite part of working for the 49ers was the opportunity to be inspired every single day.
If you had to create a hype song for your internship experience, what would it be?
- The song that best describes my internship is 'Sweet Disposition' by John Summit and The Temper Trap. I chose this track because, like the song, my internship was full of unexpected moments—never knowing what would come next. It was a whirlwind of adapting and making split-second decisions, yet it was thrilling and exciting. The song's drops perfectly capture that sense of unpredictability and energy.
Jacob Corpus - Corporate Partnerships
What was your favorite part about working with the 49ers organization?
- My favorite part of working with the 49ers organization and in partnerships, in general, was seeing ideas come to life and directly impact fans in a positive way. Knowing that my work in the office was part of something bigger than just what happened within four walls and that it could make someone's day gave every day at work a greater sense of purpose.
Who on the 49ers staff would you draft first for your dream team and why?
- If I were to draft someone from the 49ers staff for my dream team—regardless of the sport—it would have to be Nick Clarke (the man in the Santa suit above). Not only does he have the perfect build for any game thrown our way, but he also brings the charisma and leadership to take us to a championship while making the journey a whole lot of fun.
