The Texas Workforce Commission recently debuted a new internship initiative, Texas Interns Unite! at a press conference in Austin. The initiative emphasizes the benefits of internships while also connecting interns across the state with Texas employers and each other.
In partnership with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and TXWORKS Internship Program, this initiative will allow interns the opportunity to build relationships and strengthen industry connections. If an employer or an intern is looking to connect, they can join Texas Interns Unite! on LinkedIn for updates, events, and post or discover internship opportunities.
“Industry connections can make all the difference when it comes to beginning a successful career,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Aaron Demerson. “We are committed to helping make those connections between employers who need a skilled labor force and youth who are ready to succeed. Texas Interns Unite! will harness the power of interns in Texas with a platform for networking, sharing, learning best practices, and collaborating with employers.”
Texas Interns Unite! will also hit the road this summer with virtual and in-person events through September.
Promoting Experience Through Internships
Texas Interns Unite! is an initiative connected to the Texas Internship Challenge. The leading statewide campaign challenges employers to increase and promote internships for students in Texas. The portal provides a free platform for employers to post internships. Students may also access multiple paid and academic credit internship opportunities across the state.
On the benefit of completing internships before starting a career, former TWC intern Feliciano Garza said, “Internships are by far the best way to begin receiving and absorbing skills in the workplace. Take everything you guys are learning out there and apply it after graduation, or after your internship, or whenever you take the next step in your career.”
The Texas Internship Challenge was developed as a result of a recommendation from TWC, the Texas Education Agency and THECB to Governor Greg Abbott as part of the Tri-Agency Initiative.
Additionally, employers with an interest in providing paid internships for undergraduate Texas college and university students can be reimbursed through the Texas Working Off-Campus: Reinforcing Knowledge and Skills Internship Program. In 2022–2023, the state will fund $10 per hour for eligible internships, and participating employers match that amount.