Indy Airport Named Not-For-Profit Employer of the Year

(INDIANAPOLIS) – The Indianapolis Airport Authority has been named Indiana INTERNnet’s 2020 Not-For-Profit Employer of the Year at the 14th annual IMPACT Awards.

IAA’s summer internship program, which began in 2014, hires about a dozen interns each year. Through the robust internship program, IAA interns are introduced to the aviation industry and airport leaders, while completing real-world projects.

“Our summer internship program has always been a win-win for IAA and the selected students,” said Mario Rodriguez, IAA executive director. “Not only are we able to add young, talented, enthusiastic workers to our departments, but these students also gain valuable insight into the inner workings of the aviation industry. This award is a great testament to our intensive, immersive internship program.”

Nominees for this award were evaluated on their innovative approach to an internship program, the employers’ formation of meaningful work and goals for interns, and the employers’ ability to provide professional growth for interns through mentorship and networking opportunities.

IAA’s 12-week internship program is designed to provide a full summer of exposure to career fields within the airport management industry.

Throughout their time, interns have access to all levels of the organization, including individual time with senior leadership. The program provides interns with real-world experience within their educational pursuits and interests. Their schedule includes a job shadow rotation with all departments and tours of the entire IAA airport system and the Indianapolis International Airport (IND) Air Traffic Control Tower. This cross-departmental education broadens their understanding of the organization, how each department works collaboratively together and familiarizes them with the airport environment.

In addition to job shadowing, interns are encouraged to attend networking events in Indianapolis and participate in IAA volunteer programs. Last summer, the opportunities included IndyHub’s annual young professionals’ event, IndyVolved, and a Habitat for Humanity Build on Monument Circle.

“Our summer internship program is an important part of both our talent pipeline and workforce development efforts,” said IAA Sr. Director of Human Resources, Rachel Stevens. “Through this program, we have had students hired as full-time IAA employees and others who have returned to intern with us again. In all, we have impacted more than 45 interns since the beginning of the summer internship program in 2014.”

Click here to learn more about and apply to the IAA 2020 summer internship program.

The Indianapolis Airport Authority is always looking to add individuals who take pride in their work, are dedicated to doing the job right, and workers who are welcoming and open-minded. Visit IND.com/Careers to see what positions are currently open.  

Click here to view the Indianapolis International Airport Guide.