FROM CLASSROOM TO CAREER: THE VALUE OF INTERNSHIPS
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A ROUNDTABLE WITH INTERNS, EMPLOYERS, AND EDUCATORS ON THE VALUE OF INTERNSHIPS
EMPLOYERS: Why is it valuable to host internships, and where should someone start if they have not offered them before?
Scott Anderson, Senior Software Engineer Manager, IBM
Christa Holmen, Talent Acquisition Manager, Knutson Construction
To build a talent pipeline, bring in new excited talent who are hungry to learn the construction industry, and provide opportunities for current employee growth in mentorship / leadership. They should start with looking at each department and based off their growth, determine what future roles or talent they would like to build up. They should create a structured internship program that includes start / end dates, identify an intern program manager, identify current employees who would benefit / grow from leading / teaching someone underneath them. They should also look at colleges that have degree programs that would fit the candidate experience / qualifications they would need for each specific internship role.
Internships are a strategic way to engage high- potential talent early in their professional journey. Waiting until graduation to recruit can significantly narrow the hiring pool, as many candidates will have already accepted offers. By offering internships, organizations gain early access to emerging professionals, allowing time to assess skills, cultural fit, and long-term potential before making full-time hiring decisions. When launching an internship program, begin by identifying entry-level roles your organization frequently hires for. These positions offer meaningful experience and align well with long-term talent needs. Next, build a structured program with clear learning objectives, mentorship, and performance feedback. Promote it through university job platforms and engage directly with students via career fairs or virtual info sessions to attract strong candidates.
4 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — OCTOBER 2025
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