Internships are more important than ever for students.
Real-world experience to supplement classroom knowledge has become a necessity in the highly-competitive workforce. Internships provide this hands-on experience, as well as open students up to a network of professional connections.
Internships are also a launching pad for careers, and state leadership has taken notice.
According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), in 2015 the conversion rate from intern to full-time employee was more than 50%. The NACE survey also found that the primary focus of most employers’ internship programs is to convert students into full-time, entry-level employees. See more highlights from the survey here.
The Indiana Career Council, led by Governor Mike Pence and Lieutenant Governor Sue Ellspermann, released its strategic plan in 2014 to guide state workforce development efforts. The goal is that at least 60% of Indiana’s workforce will have post-secondary skills and credentials by 2025. Objective 4 of the Indiana Career Council’s strategic plan specifically calls for the elevation of work-and-learn models. State leadership also has set a goal of increasing the number of internships available to Hoosiers by 10,000.
There are many factors that contribute to a successful internship, and Indiana INTERNnet is saluting achievements in internships and mentoring. The organization is currently accepting nominations for the three outstanding interns, a career development professional and two employers who will be recognized at the 10th annual IMPACT Awards luncheon, sponsored by Ivy Tech Community College, early next year.
Individuals are invited to submit one or more nominations in any or all of the award categories:
- Outstanding Intern (high school, college and non-traditional): contribution to employer’s business; demonstrated leadership skills during internship; and professionalism.
- Outstanding Career Development Professional: assistance to students with internship opportunities; communication with students/employers; and coaching students on internship professionalism and career development.
- Outstanding Employer (nonprofit and for-profit): innovative approach to an internship program; formation of meaningful project work; and providing student with professional mentor and networking opportunities.
Winners will be announced at the IMPACT Awards Luncheon in Indianapolis on February 3, 2016 at the Ivy Tech Culinary Center.
Visit Indiana INTERNnet’s web site to complete the online nomination form. The deadline for nominations is October 23, 2015.
For more information about the Indiana INTERNnet program, visit www.IndianaINTERN.net or call (317) 264-6852.
