#United States #Nashville #internships #Genesys Works

Genesys Works Launches in Nashville

This summer, Genesys Works is making its way to Nashville, marking the organization's expansion into its ninth market. This illustrious nonprofit is committed to creating pathways to career success for high school students from underserved communities. With a focus on connecting students with paid internships, Genesys Works aims to equip young individuals with the professional skills needed to thrive in the workforce.

Byron V. Garrett, the CEO of Genesys Works, encapsulates the vision of the organization: "Talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn't." This sentiment resonates deeply as Nashville offers a fertile ground for burgeoning professionals. Through this initiative, high school seniors will have access to meaningful work experiences that not only build their confidence but also provide valuable mentorship opportunities. Notably, local companies will play a crucial role in this journey by investing in the future leaders of tomorrow.

One of the key elements of the Genesys Works program is its robust training framework. Students undergo over 160 hours of professional and technical skills training before embarking on their internships, which encompass 20 hours of work per week throughout their senior year. This structure offers continuity that traditional summer internships simply can't provide. As the employer of record, Genesys Works takes care of all logistics, ensuring a seamless experience for both the students and participating companies.

Interns will find themselves in entry-level roles across various departments, including IT, operations, marketing, HR, and finance. This broad spectrum of experiences ensures that students contribute real value from day one on the job, which ultimately benefits the companies they work with. As Dr. Adrienne Battle, the Superintendent of Nashville Public Schools, states, partnering with Genesys Works equips students with essential workplace skills and fosters important relationships with mentors who guide their development.

The impact of early exposure to professional environments cannot be understated. According to reports from Genesys Works, a staggering 90% of program graduates go on to enroll in college, significantly outperforming peers from similar educational backgrounds. Alumni reportedly earn a median income that is substantially higher than their non-participating counterparts, demonstrating the program's efficacy in breaking the cycle of economic inequality.

In addition to helping students, the program also offers local employers the chance to engage in leadership development for rising managers through mentoring roles. The strategic collaboration not only strengthens community ties but also enhances companies' ability to tap into a diverse and skilled talent pool. Karl Sprules, Chief Operating Officer at AllianceBernstein, emphasizes the importance of such initiatives, noting that they help young people discover their strengths in fast-growing fields, particularly in STEM and vocational pathways.

The demand for skilled young professionals is greater than ever, and students need the right opportunities to navigate their futures successfully. By launching in Nashville, Genesys Works is paving the way for future generations while simultaneously addressing local workforce needs. As the organization actively recruits Nashville-area employers to join its inaugural class of corporate partners, the promise of a brighter future is within reach for many aspiring young professionals.

To learn about how your organization can participate or to find out more about the program, visit genesysworks.org or contact Antiqua Cleggett at [email protected]

In conclusion, Genesys Works continues to bridge the gap between educational attainment and professional success. With its holistic approach to vocational training and community engagement, Nashville’s youth stand poised for unprecedented opportunities.