Lexington launches tech internships to retain talent

The City of Lexington has announced a pilot internship programme designed to support technology employment by creating new links between students, educational institutions and employers.

The Kentucky city said the programme will provide selected employers with partial reimbursement of wages for up to two tech-based intern positions. Eligible students must be enrolled full-time at a partnering university or college and be within two years of finishing their degrees. The city anticipates funding between 30 and 40 internships.

“Our goal is to grow tech employment by establishing new connections among our educational institutions, students, workers and employers,” Linda Gorton, Mayor of Lexington, said. “We want to retain talent, and meet the demands of our growing technology sector.”

The pilot programme has an initial cost of US$90,000, as recommended by TEConomy Partners. To qualify, each internship must consist of 120 hours of work, or 20 hours per week for six weeks.

According to the city, consultants gathered input from tech employers, industry groups, higher education institutions and local government to develop the programme. It has been designed to accommodate both technology internships in areas such as software, hardware and digital services, and tech-enabled internships that use technology to enhance or optimise operations, services or products.

James Brown, Councilmember-at-Large (pictured), said: “Strong partnerships are the foundation of a thriving community. By connecting local tech companies, educators, and students, we are building a pipeline of opportunity that empowers the next generation of talent to pursue meaningful careers right here in Lexington, while helping our businesses develop the skilled workforce they need to grow and succeed.”

The city will begin accepting online applications for the programme on 6 July.

Image: City of Lexington