#United States #Nashville #Corporate Partners #Genesys Works

Genesys Works Nashville Expands Its Reach to Local Students

In an exciting development for the Nashville community, Genesys Works, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to facilitating career opportunities for underserved high school students, has announced its inaugural corporate partners in the city. The partnership includes prominent companies such as AllianceBernstein, Barge Design Solutions, Gresham Smith, and Smith Seckman Reid, Inc. (SSR). This initiative not only marks the launch of a significant program for local youth but also addresses critical talent shortages in the financial services, architecture, engineering, and construction sectors.

As part of its growth strategy, Genesys Works Nashville is gearing up to initiate its first cohort of paid internships this coming fall. Each of the partnering companies will welcome high school seniors as interns, who will receive both training and practical experience in various fields including IT, operations, HR, marketing, and finance. The bespoke training spans eight weeks, equipping these students with essential technical and professional skills before they embark on their year-long internships.

The launch aims to place 25 students in meaningful, paid positions during the upcoming 2026–2027 academic year. Organizations interested in contributing to this transformative initiative are encouraged to consider hosting interns, as Genesys Works takes on the responsibility of logistics, administration, and support to minimize the administrative load on participating businesses.

Dr. Darren Kennedy, Executive Director of Genesys Works Nashville, expressed enthusiasm about the local employer community’s participation, highlighting the crucial role these leading companies play in nurturing future talent. “These founding partners are setting the standard for what’s possible when companies invest in local talent,” he stated. “We invite more companies to join us and leverage the invaluable contributions our interns can offer to their teams.”

Corporate leaders echoed this sentiment, highlighting the mutual benefits of the partnership. Karl Sprules, COO of AllianceBernstein, remarked on the importance of investing in local talent and how such initiatives can help groom future leaders. Similarly, Carrie Stokes, President of Barge Design Solutions, noted the AEC industry’s pivotal role in shaping communities and the necessity of engaging youth to foster interest in these careers.

Rodney Chester, CEO of Gresham Smith, further emphasized the need for early exposure of students to exciting career opportunities, particularly in sectors facing increasing demand for skilled professionals. Susan Osterberg, CEO of Smith Seckman Reid, articulated the partnership's potential to demystify careers in design and engineering, enhancing students’ understanding of the necessary skills and opportunities available in the field.

Genesys Works has a well-established track record of success, having successfully placed over 14,000 young professionals in internships across various cities. Their unique program is structured to ensure students are well-prepared for their roles while simultaneously providing businesses with reliable and committed interns.

The initiative is crucial in addressing the broader issue of economic inequality, offering a pathway for students from underserved communities to enter professional careers. It not only enhances their prospects but also builds a stronger workforce for Nashville, contributing to the economic vitality of the region.

As interest grows, Genesys Works Nashville is actively reaching out for more corporate partners to amplify the impact of this initiative. For companies keen to participate or to learn more about hosting interns, more information can be obtained through their website or by contacting their team directly.

With such collaborative efforts, Genesys Works is poised to make a significant difference in the lives of young individuals in Nashville, creating opportunities that pave the way for a brighter and more equitable future. This partnership model not only champions education but reinforces the importance of corporate responsibility in shaping the workforce of tomorrow.