Retaining talented college graduates is vital for the future growth of Indiana and its businesses. Losing Indiana-educated students to opportunities in other states, best known as the brain drain, is an epidemic the state has faced for some time. Indiana INTERNnet is among the initiatives established to stem the tide. It is a free program companies should use to connect with Indiana students.
Indiana INTERNnet is designed and operated as a Web-based program that helps make connections between internship-seeking students and Indiana employers. Launched in 2001, it became a part of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce in 2006. The Chamber, in addition to hiring a full-time staff, has guided the organization's transition to a statewide focus.
Warsaw businesses rely heavily on having a highly skilled workforce. Ensuring that employees possess the necessary skills is in the best interest of our entire community. Internships can be a powerful tool in attracting future professionals to our area.
Student interns provide many benefits to their host organizations. Their enthusiasm and creativity can help complement and diversify a company's workforce. Businesses also have the advantage of evaluating these talented interns for future employment potential.
Numerous organizations are already benefiting from interns and the Indiana INTERNnet program. These companies are developing the business leaders of tomorrow and addressing the brain drain issue as interns learn more about career opportunities within Indiana. The process is simple: Determine your company's needs, post internship opportunities on Indiana INTERNnet and hire talented students to help meet your company's goals.
Indiana INTERNnet (www.indianaintern.net) hosted a Live, Learn and Earn Symposium at the Indiana Chamber Conference Center Feb. 8. This event connected employers with educators to help meet the goal of expanding internship opportunities in Indiana.
