High School Tech Internship Program Opens New Application Period
(COLUMBUS, Ohio) – The Ohio Department of Development and the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation today announced the opening of a new internship round for Ohio students and businesses looking to make an impact in technology fields.
The High School Tech Internship Program offers Ohio employers wage reimbursement for hosting high school interns in tech-related roles, helping businesses establish a recruitment pipeline while providing students with valuable work experience at an early age.
“By helping employers create technology-based internship opportunities for Ohio’s youth, this program gives businesses the opportunity to work with and nurture emerging talent while also giving young people hands-on experience as they prepare to enter the workforce,” said Governor Mike DeWine.
“In Ohio, we believe the best workforce strategy starts early and with opportunity,” said Lt. Governor Jim Tressel. “When a young person can step into a new role and see how their skills make a difference, it builds confidence and clarity about their future. Programs like this give students meaningful exposure to the workplace and high-demand industries, helping them make informed decisions about their career pathways.”
Interns will perform job duties similar to those of entry-level employees in technology roles, including AI, software development, data, and IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, broadband/5G, and other tech-focused fields. Employers can be reimbursed up to 75 percent of the wages paid to interns, with a cap of $5,000 per intern, to encourage businesses to hire high school students for these positions.
“In Ohio, we’re determined to set up students and businesses for success,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development. “Through the High School Tech Internship Program, we’re providing bright young minds with practical skills and supporting workforce development so that companies will benefit from a strong talent pipeline.”
To participate, businesses, schools, and students interested in applying should contact their regional intermediary. High School Tech Internship intermediaries ensure the program is administered seamlessly between the state and employers.
In 2025, a total of 307 educational entities, 364 employers, and 1,204 interns participated in the program.
Selected High School Tech Internship Intermediaries include:
- Northwest and Western Ohio:
- Northeast Ohio: Youth Opportunities Unlimited (Y.O.U.)
- Central Ohio: Educational Service Center of Central Ohio
- Southwest Ohio: INTERalliance of Greater Cincinnati
- Southeast Ohio: Building Bridges to Careers
“The more real-world learning experiences we can provide for students, the more competitive they will be throughout their careers,” said Stephen D. Dackin, director of the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. “The High School Tech Internship program is a great opportunity for students to develop essential skills needed for success now and in the future.”
Learn more about the program, including contact information for intermediaries, at workforce.ohio.gov/hstechinternshipprogram.
The Ohio Department of Development empowers communities to succeed by investing in Ohio’s people, places, and businesses. Learn more about our work at development.ohio.gov.
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