The (CED) is inviting businesses from throughout Will County to learn more about the 2026 Will County Summer Internship Program by joining one of a series of informational breakfasts. Launched in 2024, the Internship Program bridges the gap between the classroom and the workplace by providing high school students firsthand exposure to careers in a wide variety of industries while giving employers an opportunity to engage directly with the local emerging talent.
2025, the second year of the program, the number of internship opportunities for students grew to 75 with the support of employers from throughout Will County. The CED goal is to build on this momentum and expand the program in year three as they welcome Lincoln-Way High School District 210 and Plainfield Community Consolidated School District 202 to current partner schools Joliet Township High School District 204, Joliet Catholic Academy, Lockport Township High School District 205, Providence Catholic High School, Valley View Community Unit School District 365U, and WILCO Area Career Center.
The program has already demonstrated significant impact. Over 100 students have gained valuable skills, confidence, and professional connections that help prepare them for higher education or entry into the workforce.
“The importance of students obtaining work opportunities in careers they are interested in is instrumental to their future planning,” said Will County Executive and CED Board Chair Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant.”
“By joining us in the Internship Program, local businesses can invest not only in their own future talent pipeline but also in the long-term economic strength of Will County,” said Doug Pryor, President and CEO of the Will County Center for Economic Development. To prepare for the 2026 cohort, the CED is inviting employers to attend one of several upcoming Informational Breakfasts. These sessions are designed for both new and returning employers to learn about program updates, new guidelines, important dates, and how to sign up.
Upcoming Employer Informational Breakfasts:
Romeoville Village Hall, 1050 W. Romeo Road Romeoville, IL 60446
• Tuesday, September 30 – Plainfield
Plainfield 202 Admin. Offices, 15732 Howard St. Plainfield, IL 60544
• Wednesday, October 1 – Bolingbrook
Bolingbrook Chamber Offices, 201 Canterbury Lane Bolingbrook, IL 60440
• Wednesday, October 15 – New Lenox
Lincoln-Way West Warriors Lodge, 21701 S. Gougar Road New Lenox, IL 60451
• Wednesday, October 22 – Lockport
Lockport Township Offices, 1463 S Farrell Rd Lockport, IL 60441
Each breakfast begins with doors opening at 8 a.m., followed by the session from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. A light breakfast will be provided. Employers interested in attending an Informational Breakfast or learning more about the program may register at www.willcountyced.com or reach out to the CED directly at 815-723-1800 for additional information.
The Will County Summer Internship Program represents a collaborative effort between the CED, local schools, and employers countywide. Together, this partnership is preparing students for success, strengthening employer connections to local talent, and ensuring that Will County continues to build a skilled workforce equipped to meet the needs of a rapidly changing economy.
