Applications are open for employers to take part in the South Bend – Elkhart Regional Internship Program.
Companies access a strong pipeline of local college students and student-employer engagement opportunities, while receiving a partial wage reimbursement to reduce the cost of hosting an intern.
“The Regional Internship Program is about more than just connecting students and employers – it's about building the next generation of our Region's workforce,” said Bethany Hartley, South Bend – Elkhart Regional Partnership president and CEO, in a press release. “By investing in young talent and providing real-world opportunities here at home, we're strengthening the pipeline of professionals who will drive innovation, growth and community impact across our Region.”
Participating employers will receive a weekly updated list of student candidates that can be narrowed by qualifications. Currently, one-third of students have a grade point average of 3.75 or higher. The top industries students are looking to gain experience in are business, data science, IT/cyber security, computer science and engineering.
The Regional Internship Program was established with support through Lilly Endowment's LIFT grant. Now in its fifth year, it has paired over 100 interns with 54 different companies in the Region, in a variety of skill sets and industries. During the summer semester, students and employers have the opportunity to participate in activities such as South Bend Cubs games, business networking and more.
According to Chad Hartzell, Barletta Boats vice president of human resources, two of the most valuable things to come from participating in the internship program were “our leadership team seeing the value-add that interns can provide to our business and building credibility with young talent across the Region.”
Eligible companies must be located in Elkhart, Marshall or St. Joseph counties. Learn more here.
