The City of Hilliard and Hilliard City Schools have partnered to launch a new internship program designed to give local high school students hands-on experience with emerging technologies.
Created through the Hilliard City Lab initiative, the Hilliard City Lab Internship Program provides 25 high school juniors and seniors with a 200-hour, project-based learning experience focused on technologies including artificial intelligence, robotics, 3D printing and electronics.
Students work alongside local technology companies and mentors while researching federally developed technologies, developing prototypes and preparing commercialization plans. Participants also gain experience using industry-relevant equipment and tools while building workforce skills such as communication, critical thinking and project management.
“This program gives students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with technologies that are shaping the future while helping build a strong local talent pipeline,” said David Meadows, Hilliard’s director of economic development. “It’s an exciting partnership that connects education, innovation and workforce development right here in Hilliard.”
The first group of interns began the program on June 8 and will continue through mid-August. The internship program is funded through Ohio’s High School Tech Internship Program, administered by the Educational Service Center of Central Ohio.
Founded by the City of Hilliard and the Hilliard Development Corporation (HDC), Hilliard City Lab was created to transform the community into a living laboratory where emerging technologies can be tested, demonstrated and commercialized. Since its launch, HDC has awarded more than $1 million in grant funding to 45 innovation-focused projects.
