Synchrony and University of Illinois Celebrate Major Expansion of Emerging Technology Center with Over 400 Internships

Major Expansion of the Synchrony Emerging Technology Center

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (U. of I.) and Synchrony, a leading name in consumer financial services, recently celebrated a significant milestone: the expansion of their Emerging Technology Center (ETC). This expansion comes at a time when over 400 U. of I. students have successfully gained invaluable hands-on experience through Synchrony’s internship program.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

The ceremony took place in Research Park, where university leaders, Synchrony executives, and students gathered to inaugurate the newly expanded ETC. Now spanning nearly 11,000 square feet, this reimagined space is set to play a crucial role in preparing students for future careers in technology. The center focuses on various pivotal skills, including engineering, data science, and human-centered design, thus ensuring that students are well-equipped for the job market.

Enhanced Facilities

The expansion of the ETC has effectively doubled the previous seating capacity, while also introducing innovative collaboration areas. These include flexible huddle rooms, event spaces for town halls, and networking opportunities, along with a newly remodeled café that encourages community engagement. Additionally, the center features a commissioned mural from a local artist, celebrating both the University of Illinois and the state, effectively enriching the design and ambiance of the center.

Year-Round Internship Programs

Through the ETC, interns have the unique opportunity to collaborate year-round with Synchrony employees from over 60 different teams. These real-world projects not only fuel Synchrony’s business growth but also enhance the customer experience. The center serves as a crucial pipeline for talent, with many interns transitioning into full-time roles in technology, analytics, and credit within Synchrony following their internship tenure.

Positive Remarks from Leadership

Tim Christensen, Synchrony's Chief Information Officer, commented, “The expansion of our Emerging Technology Center reflects the incredible talent of U. of I. students as well as the enduring strength of our partnership with the university.” He emphasized the mutual benefit of enhancing innovation goals for Synchrony while providing students opportunities to cultivate and grow their technology skills.

Moreover, Dr. Susan Martinis, the Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation at U. of I., praised Synchrony for being an instrumental launchpad for students pursuing careers in technology and analytics within consumer finance. "The company exemplifies how academic research can seamlessly connect with industry applications, greatly benefiting our educational programs," she remarked.

More Than Just Internships

Beyond the internship program, Synchrony and U. of I. engage in a variety of co-hosted events, such as hackathons and Datathons specifically tailored for students interested in data science. They also conduct in-class lectures covering essential topics like Generative AI and credit modeling, fostering an innovative and enriching culture for students, university staff, and Synchrony alike.

Synchrony’s Broader Impact

This notable expansion builds upon Synchrony's wider educational initiatives, aiming to improve financial access and mobility for individuals across the U.S. The commitment to nurturing the next generation of financial technology professionals remains unwavering. Notably, Synchrony is celebrated as one of the best companies to work for, according to Fortune magazine and Great Place to Work.

For further details about Synchrony’s contributions in Illinois and beyond, visit synchronyimpact.com.