Giving high school students in our community the confidence they need to succeed in the business world through challenging, hands-on technology internships.
For the past six years, VirginiaFIRST, RichTech, and Genworth Financial have partnered to administer The Virginia Technology Internship (VTI) Program. This program was developed to help technology focused high school juniors and seniors apply what they have learned in their IT related courses to a business environment. But please be warned you are not just doing the students a favor; you will be the beneficiaries as well!
As you know, VirginiaFIRST works with students to help prepare them for careers in technology. We believe The Virginia Technology Internship Program is a unique opportunity to work with some of the best and brightest young people in the Richmond area. The VTI program not only introduces students to technology in a professional environment, but also provides businesses with the opportunity to pursue smaller short term projects that may have been on the “back burner” due to staffing limitations. Past internships have included:
- CAD drawing
- Application development
- Programming
- AV production
- Marketing using social media
We are passionate about this very worthwhile cause and would like to ask for your help in making this year’s program a success. We are inviting you join companies such as Genworth, Anton Parr, Dominion Digital, and the Science Museum of Virginia to become a host employer and mentor for the summer or support an internship scholarship at a local non-profit. By participating in this effort, your company and these students will benefit in the short term, and you will be helping to prepare and develop your future workforce.
Here’s how it works:
- Determine the area where you wish the intern to work or email virginiafirstcontactus@gmail.com about sponsoring an internship at a local non-profit.
- The recommended duration is an 8 week period, with a minimum 16 hours/week between June 19th and August 17th
- The suggested hourly rate is $10
- Assign a primary and secondary mentor
- Click here for Company Application
- Review the student resumes that have been vetted by the VTI Committee
- Select your preferred candidates
If you would like more information, please contact Leighann Boland. Information can also be found here. Thank you for your time and for your continued support of VirginiaFIRST.
Why Should I Become a Mentor/Sponsor?
By becoming a mentor you will be providing students who participate in this exciting program a chance to apply their knowledge of technology to real world assignments, work alongside professionals in Information Technology and enhance their teambuilding and leadership skills.
Being a mentor helps to shape the next generation of technology leaders, while promoting the Greater Richmond area as a center of technology companies and skilled technology workforce.
FAQ
How long does the internship program last? Duration is for 8 weeks.
When does it begin? Traditionally, internships have started after the school term ends. VTI is working to develop internship opportunities throughout the year. You will meet with your intern to determine a start date.
How many hours per week do interns work? That's up to you, but a minimum of 16 hours a week is required.
What is the hourly fee? Again, that depends on you, but the suggested rate is $10.00 per hour.
What is the minimum age for interns? Students may apply during their 2nd semester of their Sophomore year in high school.
What is the selection criteria for the VTI program? The VTI committee bases its evaluation of applicants upon several factors, including relevant skills and workplace placement, GPA, teacher recommendations, number of local internship opportunities, and demonstrated professionalism and work ethic.
Contact
Leighann Boland
804.864.1444
virginiafirstcontactus@gmail.com
Partners
