Talent Pipeline: A Guide to Developing an Effective Internship Program

Governments keep hearing they need to “build a talent pipeline,” but many struggle with how to do so. Implementing a robust internship program is one option that has worked well for some local governments. This session will offer a behind-the-scenes look at designing internship programs and implementing practices that keep them working year after year.

Topics include sourcing candidates through school and university partnerships, screening and selecting interns, and setting pay rates, schedules, and expectations that both attract students and accommodate the needs of supervisors and front-line teams. The discussion will also address factors that determine program success, such as scoping work suitable for interns and creating a supervision approach that protects staff time and offers meaningful mentorship.

Attendees will leave this session with a practical toolkit to build a successful internship program for their organization.