Career Center staff write commentary for Maryland Matters

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 08:36:32 -0500
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The Career Center's Christine Routzahn, director, and Jennifer Spencer Heilman, program director for workforce initiatives, wrote guest commentary for Maryland Matters, entitled, "Supporting Md.'s technology growth, innovation, and talent retention by increasing paid technical internships." The March 4, 2024 article focused on the success of the Maryland Technology Internship Program (MTIP), administered by the UMBC Career Center and funded by the State of Maryland.

Heilman and Routzahn wrote that MTIP "incentivizes technology-based businesses, as well as state and local agencies, to increase their intern hires by providing matching intern funds and additional support. Since its inception in 2018, MTIP has facilitated over 1,000 paid technical internships across Maryland, spanning diverse industries such as biohealth/life sciences, engineering, IT/software solutions, cybersecurity, and manufacturing. This program, in partnership with higher education institutions and numerous employers statewide, underscores the importance of bridging the gap between theoretical classroom learning and practical real-world applications."

They add that, "The Maryland Technology Internship Program represents a significant step towards nurturing Maryland's technical talent pool and supporting its economic growth. UMBC is honored to administer MTIP, showcasing Maryland's commitment to paid internships, support for small businesses, and strategic partnerships that set a promising foundation for its continued expansion and success. As stakeholders continue to invest in initiatives like MTIP, they contribute not only to the professional development of students but also to the sustainable growth of Maryland's workforce. It is critical that we continue to invest in programs like MTIP to secure a successful future for generations to come."