Springfield is rapidly becoming a destination of choice for potential workers and residents wanting to grow their careers. Thanks to the innovative Magnify Internship Program spearheaded by The Greater Springfield Partnership, students are better equipped to take their first steps into the workforce. This program isn’t just about finding jobs; it’s about shaping the workforce of tomorrow right here in Springfield, Ohio.

Empowering Students with Real-world Skills

The Magnify Internship Program is more than a traditional internship—it’s a comprehensive experience designed to prepare students for the challenges of the modern workplace. On April 11th, 41 students gathered at the Brinkman Education Center for hands-on training with local employers. The day was divided into three sessions, each focusing on critical areas for career success: Money Management and Life Skills, How to Get a Job, and How to Keep a Job.

These sessions gave students valuable insights into financial literacy, resume building, and interview preparation. The partnership with Clothes That Work was particularly impactful, offering students free professional attire to ensure they were prepared for their interviews. Grant funding provided by The Springfield Foundation enabled Clothes That Work to operate and support these students in Clark County.

Kaitlyn Tyler, the Talent and Education Coordinator, took a personalized approach by meeting with each student individually. Using their YouScience results, which help students discover their natural aptitudes, Kaitlyn matched them with companies that aligned with their skills and career aspirations.

Jody Gump from WesBanco, who participated in the training day, emphasized its importance: “The Magnify Internship Program training day is a wonderful opportunity for local students to get access to those opportunities and to be able to connect with local leaders.”

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Bridging the Gap Between Education and Employment

One of the program's key goals is to bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring that students not only find jobs but thrive in them. The program culminated in an Interview Day on May 2nd at the Clark County Educational Service Center. Students interviewed with local companies from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, choosing up to three organizations that best fit their career goals. Local businesses were enthusiastic about the impact of the program. Christina Walters, CEO of Night Dispatch LLC, shared her experience: “The Magnify Internship Program consistently provides us with outstanding students who are thoroughly vetted and genuinely eager to work. Last year, we created an entirely new department with the help of four interns from this program.”

This kind of feedback isn’t isolated. Many companies in Springfield have found the program to be mutually beneficial, helping them discover fresh talent while giving students a real taste of the working world. Woeber Mustard Manufacturing Company’s Food Safety Coordinator, who was once an intern herself, underscored the value of early career exploration: “Internships allow the youth of our community to experience what fields may be in their neighborhoods so that we can retain them in our community.”

A Community Committed to Workforce Development

The success of the Internship Program is a testament to Springfield’s commitment to workforce development. By investing in young talent, Springfield ensures that the next generation of workers is prepared and excited to contribute to the community’s growth. The program’s reach is broad, with students placed in organizations ranging from Springfield Kiwanis to Always Sunny Realty and the Small Business Development Center.

Laura Hart, Director of Education and Outreach at Clothes That Work, praised the program’s impact on the community: “The student interns participating in the program are learning valuable skills to prepare them for future employment, and the program is a wonderful asset to Clark County. It was an honor to be a part of this event.”

Springfield’s Internship Program is a movement towards a brighter future for the community. By fostering a supportive environment for potential and current residents, Springfield is proving to be a place where careers can flourish, making it a destination for those eager to make their mark in the world. As Springfield continues to grow and evolve, programs like this will play a crucial role in shaping a thriving, dynamic workforce ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow.