Virtual professional development conference for West Michigan interns

Now in its 8^th year, West Michigan Intern Connect represents the largest gathering of regional interns. The event, hosted by Hello West Michigan, is a professional development conference focused on developing the skills of young professionals, regardless of industry.

This virtual conference will cover topics, not necessarily taught in the classroom, including working with your managers, relationship building, and life advice every young professional needs outside of the office so they can thrive at work.

Following the main event on June 23, registrants will unlock an exclusive series of five, Virtual Connection Events throughout July and August. Each of these connection events provides an opportunity for students and interns to meet West Michigan professionals, practice their networking skills, and learn more about the region.

The program aims to attract and retain talented young graduates in West Michigan by displaying the opportunities this region offers and connecting students to local employers. For many companies in West Michigan, interns play a critical role in the talent pipeline. Therefore, taking opportunities to invest in training those interns is just as important.

However, some West Michigan companies may be too small to hold professional development opportunities to provide that extra education for their interns. That’s where Intern Connect comes in – giving interns throughout West Michigan the opportunity to come together to connect with the community, their peers, and local employers.

Companies can participate in several ways. Gain exposure to your employment brand by hosting a breakout room at our Virtual Connection Events. If you don’t want to be involved at a company level, you can pay for your interns (either in part or in full) to attend Intern Connect or simply pass the word along to them and encourage them to attend. Contact Jessica Kuster (kusterj@hellowestmichigan.com) for group registration options and sponsorship opportunities.

Learn more at hellowestmichigan.com/internconnect or contact Hello West Michigan.