Top Best 15 High School Internships in Cincinnati, OH 2026

Introduction

Discovering internships for high school students in Cincinnati opens doors to exceptional career exploration opportunities in the Queen City—home to more Fortune 500 headquarters per capita than anywhere else in America, world-renowned healthcare institutions, thriving technology sector, and rich cultural heritage along the Ohio River.

From groundbreaking biomedical research at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center—ranked #1 in pediatric research nationally, cutting-edge technology internships through INTERalliance connecting students with IT leaders across Greater Cincinnati, consumer products innovation at Procter & Gamble’s global headquarters, accessible tech opportunities through Ohio’s High School Tech Internship Program subsidizing 75% of wages, legal profession exposure through Hamilton County courts, to environmental conservation along the Ohio River corridor, Cincinnati offers diverse paid internships and summer jobs for teens designed specifically for high school students.

Whether you’re passionate about medical research at UC Health, information technology with companies like Kroger Technology or Western & Southern Financial Group, business operations at P&G or Fifth Third Bank, aerospace engineering at GE Aviation, government service at Cincinnati City Hall, or arts management at the Cincinnati Art Museum or Music Hall, Cincinnati delivers comprehensive student opportunities that strengthen college applications and launch professional careers. The city’s combination of Fortune 500 headquarters, world-class children’s hospital, growing tech ecosystem, major universities (University of Cincinnati, Xavier, Northern Kentucky University), and robust state-funded youth programs creates an unmatched landscape for ambitious teens seeking real-world work experience.

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Top High School Internship Programs in Cincinnati 2026

Below are 15 verified and current internship opportunities for high school students in Cincinnati. All information has been confirmed for the 2026 application cycle with updated deadlines and program details.

1. Cincinnati Children’s Hospital High School Summer Internship

• Organization: Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center – Burnet Campus & Liberty Campus
• Description: Eight-week paid pediatric biomedical research internship at the nation’s #1 ranked children’s hospital for research. Work with PhD scientists and physician researchers on cutting-edge projects in cancer biology, immunology, genetics, neuroscience, and more. Includes mentorship, lab skills training, research symposium presentation, and college preparation support.
• Eligibility: High school juniors (rising seniors), 3.5+ weighted GPA required, Cincinnati metro area residents (Hamilton, Butler, Warren, Clermont counties in Ohio; Boone, Kenton, Campbell counties in Kentucky), demonstrated STEM interest
• Duration: 8 weeks (Summer), full-time Monday-Friday
• Compensation: Paid – competitive hourly rate
• Deadline: Application opens early November 2025; closes February 1, 2026
• Apply: Cincinnati Children’s High School Internship

2. INTERalliance INTERnship Program

• Organization: INTERalliance of Greater Cincinnati – IT Industry Partnership
• Description: Technology internship program connecting high school students with leading IT companies across Greater Cincinnati including Kroger Technology, Western & Southern Financial Group, Fifth Third Bank, GE Aviation, P&G IT, Cintas, and 150+ partner companies. Work on software development, cybersecurity, data analytics, IT operations, and business technology projects. Part of Ohio’s High School Tech Internship Program with wage subsidies.
• Eligibility: High school students (grades 9-12), Greater Cincinnati area, must be INTERalliance student member (membership is free)
• Duration: Summer or academic year, varies by placement; typically 10-12 weeks summer
• Compensation: Paid – competitive rates; employers receive 75% wage reimbursement up to $5,000 per intern through state program
• Deadline: Applications open Fall/Winter; rolling admissions
• Apply: INTERalliance Internships

3. Ohio High School Tech Internship Program – Cincinnati Region

• Organization: Ohio Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation – Southwest Ohio (INTERalliance administrator)
• Description: Statewide paid technology internship initiative placing high school students in software development, cybersecurity, broadband, and IT roles. Employers receive up to 75% wage reimbursement (capped at $5,000 per intern). Nearly 1,000 students participated statewide in 2024—program expanding for 2025-26.
• Eligibility: Ohio high school students, interest in technology careers
• Duration: Varies by placement; summer or academic year options
• Compensation: Paid – wages set by employer with state subsidy covering 75%
• Deadline: Rolling admissions through regional intermediaries
• Apply: Contact INTERalliance of Greater Cincinnati ([email protected]) or Ohio Tech Internship Program

4. Procter & Gamble Student Programs

• Organization: Procter & Gamble – Global Headquarters, Downtown Cincinnati
• Description: Highly competitive consumer products business internship at Fortune 50 company. Limited high school opportunities primarily through special programs like Brand Management Emerging Leaders Camp, STEM BOLD Internship & Scholarship ($10,000 scholarship with 10-12 week internship), and early talent initiatives. Most internships target college students but exceptional high school seniors may be considered.
• Eligibility: Primarily college students; high school seniors with exceptional academics and leadership for special programs
• Duration: 10-12 weeks (Summer), full-time
• Compensation: Paid – highly competitive rates; STEM BOLD includes $10,000 scholarship
• Deadline: Early fall (August-October) for following summer
• Apply: P&G Careers – Student Programs

5. University of Cincinnati Summer Programs & Research

• Organization: University of Cincinnati – Clifton Campus
• Description: Multiple pathways including UC Health research internships, engineering summer camps, business programs, and departmental research opportunities. Work with university faculty on projects ranging from biomedical engineering to business analytics. Strong local student focus.
• Eligibility: High school students (varies by program), Cincinnati/Ohio residents often prioritized
• Duration: Varies – typically 2-8 week summer programs
• Compensation: Varies – some paid positions, many tuition-based with financial aid
• Deadline: December-March depending on program
• Apply: Visit UC Admissions and individual college websites

6. Hamilton County Court System Internships

• Organization: Hamilton County Courts – Downtown Cincinnati
• Description: Legal system and judicial process internship across county courts including Juvenile Court, Probate Court, Common Pleas, and Municipal Court. Shadow judges, court staff, and attorneys; observe trials and hearings; conduct legal research; learn court operations and justice system.
• Eligibility: High school students & college students, Hamilton County/Greater Cincinnati area, interest in law/justice
• Duration: Summer or semester, varies by court division
• Compensation: Varies – some paid positions, many volunteer with academic credit
• Deadline: Rolling admissions; contact courts directly
• Apply: Contact individual Hamilton County court divisions

7. Cincinnati Public Schools Career Experience Program

• Organization: Cincinnati Public Schools – District-wide CTE
• Description: School district-coordinated internships placing CPS students with local employers across industries through Career and Technical Education partnerships. Includes manufacturing, healthcare, IT, business, hospitality sectors with wraparound support services.
• Eligibility: Cincinnati Public Schools students, various grade levels
• Duration: Summer or academic year, varies by placement
• Compensation: Most paid positions
• Deadline: Applications through school counselors; rolling
• Apply: Contact CPS Career and Technical Education office or school counselor

8. Fifth Third Bank Summer Internship Program

• Organization: Fifth Third Bank – Downtown Cincinnati & Regional Offices
• Description: Financial services and banking internship at regional banking leader (Fortune 500 company). Opportunities in retail banking, wealth management, corporate banking, IT, operations, and business divisions. Limited high school positions but strong college internship pipeline.
• Eligibility: Primarily college students; exceptional high school seniors may be considered
• Duration: 10-12 weeks (Summer), full-time
• Compensation: Paid – competitive banking industry rates
• Deadline: Fall/Winter for summer positions
• Apply: Fifth Third Careers

9. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Youth Programs

• Organization: Cincinnati Zoo – Avondale
• Description: Animal care, conservation, and education internship at America’s second-oldest zoo. Work with education teams on programming, assist with animal encounters (not direct animal care), support conservation initiatives, engage visitors. Hands-on wildlife and horticulture experience.
• Eligibility: Ages 15-18, Greater Cincinnati area, passion for wildlife and conservation
• Duration: Summer program or academic year, varies
• Compensation: Paid positions and volunteer opportunities available
• Deadline: Winter/Spring for summer positions
• Apply: Cincinnati Zoo Careers

10. Cincinnati Art Museum & Music Hall Internships

• Organization: Cincinnati Art Museum & Cincinnati Music Hall – Eden Park & Over-the-Rhine
• Description: Arts management, museum education, and cultural programming internships at premier arts institutions. Work on exhibitions, educational programs, visitor services, special events, and arts administration. Cincinnati Art Museum houses 67,000+ artworks; Music Hall is National Historic Landmark.
• Eligibility: High school students, Greater Cincinnati area, interest in arts/culture
• Duration: Summer or academic year, flexible hours
• Compensation: Paid positions available
• Deadline: Winter/Spring for summer
• Apply: Visit museum websites or contact education departments

11. GE Aviation Supply Chain & Operations Internship

• Organization: GE Aviation – Evendale Campus, Cincinnati
• Description: Aerospace manufacturing and supply chain internship at world’s leading jet engine manufacturer. Primarily college-level program but exceptional high school seniors in engineering/STEM may be considered. Work on manufacturing processes, quality systems, supply chain operations.
• Eligibility: Primarily college students; exceptional high school seniors with strong STEM
• Duration: Summer internship, 10-12 weeks
• Compensation: Paid – competitive engineering rates
• Deadline: Fall for following summer
• Apply: GE Aviation Careers

12. Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber Youth Programs

• Organization: Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber – Downtown
• Description: Business and economic development exposure through chamber programs connecting students with business leaders. Includes business site visits, mentorship, leadership development, and understanding Greater Cincinnati’s economy.
• Eligibility: High school students, Greater Cincinnati area
• Duration: Varies by program
• Compensation: Varies – some programs scholarship-based
• Deadline: Varies by program offering
• Apply: Contact Chamber education/workforce development programs

13. City of Cincinnati Government Internships

• Organization: City of Cincinnati – Various Departments
• Description: Municipal government internship across city departments including mayor’s office, city council, planning, parks, public works, police/fire administration, and community development. Public sector career exploration.
• Eligibility: High school students (grades 10-12), Cincinnati residents preferred
• Duration: Summer or semester, varies by department
• Compensation: Some paid positions available
• Deadline: Rolling by department; typically Winter-Spring for summer
• Apply: City of Cincinnati Careers

14. Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library Teen Programs

• Organization: Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library – 41 Locations
• Description: Library services and teen programming internship across library system. Work on youth services, technology assistance, literacy programs, collections, and community engagement at branches throughout county.
• Eligibility: Ages 14-18, Hamilton County area
• Duration: Academic year or summer, 8-12 hrs/week
• Compensation: Paid positions available
• Deadline: Rolling admissions
• Apply: Library Careers

15. Ohio State Government Internships – Cincinnati Offices

• Organization: Ohio State Agencies – Regional Offices
• Description: State government internships with Ohio agencies maintaining Cincinnati/Southwest Ohio offices, including the Department of Health, Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Transportation, and Job and Family Services. Public policy and state administration experience.
• Eligibility: High school students & college students, Ohio residents
• Duration: Summer or semester, varies by agency
• Compensation: Varies – many paid positions
• Deadline: Rolling by agency
• Apply: Ohio State Jobs or contact agencies directly

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How to Apply for Internships in Cincinnati

Successfully securing internships for high school students in Cincinnati requires strategic planning and thorough preparation. Here’s your complete guide to navigating the application process in the Queen City.

Application Methods

Online Application Portals (Most Common)

Most Cincinnati internship programs use digital application systems where you’ll:

• Create a secure account with email and password
• Complete forms with personal, academic, and contact information
• Upload resume and cover letter as PDF files
• Answer essay questions about interests, goals, and qualifications
• Provide 2-3 references (teachers, counselors, employers)
• Submit transcripts showing current GPA and coursework
• Track application status through the dashboard

Programs using online portals: Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, INTERalliance, Ohio High School Tech Internship Program, P&G, University of Cincinnati programs, GE Aviation, Fifth Third Bank

Through School Counselors and CTE Coordinators

Many Cincinnati programs coordinate through schools:

• Meet with school counselor or career advisor in early fall to discuss internship goals
• Request teacher recommendations 3-4 weeks before deadlines
• Have counselors submit official transcripts or nominations
• Coordinate through Cincinnati Public Schools Career and Technical Education programs
• Obtain work permits through school (required for Ohio workers under 18)

Programs coordinating through schools: CPS Career Experience Program, INTERalliance membership (through school chapters), some Ohio Tech Internship placements

Direct Contact Methods

Government offices and cultural institutions may prefer direct contact:

• Email professional inquiry: “Summer 2026 Internship Application – [Your Name]”
• Attach labeled resume and cover letter PDFs
• Include 3-4 sentence introduction in email body
• Follow up after one week if no response
• Be prepared for quick interviews

Programs accepting direct contact: Hamilton County Courts, City of Cincinnati departments, Ohio State agencies, Cincinnati Zoo, museums, libraries

Required Documents Checklist

Prepare these materials before starting applications:

□ Resume – One page highlighting academics, activities, volunteer work, leadership, and prior employment. Students exploring Ohio opportunities should review internships for high school students in Ohio for statewide programs.

□ Cover Letter – Customized 250-400 word letter explaining specific interest in each program and relevant qualifications

□ Transcripts – Unofficial copies showing current courses and weighted GPA (Cincinnati Children’s requires weighted GPA through fall semester)

□ References – Contact information for 2-3 adults who can speak to your abilities and character

□ Personal ID – Birth certificate, Ohio ID, or driver’s license proving age and residency

□ Proof of Residency – Document showing Greater Cincinnati residency for programs with geographic requirements

□ Work Permit – Ohio requires work permits for workers under 18; obtain from school with parent signature

□ Background Check – Healthcare and government positions require background screening

□ Essays/Personal Statements – Competitive programs (Cincinnati Children’s, P&G) require substantial essays

□ INTERalliance Membership – Free student membership required for INTERalliance internships (register through school or online)

Application Timeline

September – October: Research programs across Cincinnati metro and begin preparation. Students considering neighboring metros should explore internships for high school students in Columbus or internships for high school students in Cleveland.

November – December: Early openings: Cincinnati Children’s opens early November (deadline February 1), P&G programs (August-October for following summer), GE Aviation (Fall). Finalize materials and request recommendations before winter break. For students considering other Midwest cities, explore internships for high school students in Chicago or internships for high school students in Indianapolis.

January – February: Major deadline: Cincinnati Children’s closes February 1. INTERalliance applications (rolling), University of Cincinnati programs (December-March), Ohio Tech Internship Program placements. Students exploring Great Lakes region should consider internships for high school students in Detroit or internships for high school students in Milwaukee.

March – April: Cincinnati Zoo, museums, libraries, City of Cincinnati departments, CPS Career Experience Program. Many rolling admission programs still accepting. For Southern opportunities, explore internships for high school students in Atlanta or internships for high school students in Nashville.

May – June: Most competitive positions filled; focus on rolling admission programs including Ohio Tech Internship (year-round), government offices, libraries. For East Coast opportunities, explore internships for high school students in Pittsburgh.

Year-Round: Ohio High School Tech Internship Program, some government positions, Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library accept applications throughout the year.

Tips for Stronger Applications

Emphasize Cincinnati Connection: Many programs prioritize Greater Cincinnati residents (Ohio side: Hamilton, Butler, Warren, Clermont counties; Kentucky side: Boone, Kenton, Campbell counties). Highlight your ties to Cincinnati—neighborhood, years in area, community involvement, knowledge of Cincinnati’s Fortune 500 headquarters concentration and Queen City heritage. Reference specific characteristics (business leadership, healthcare excellence, river culture, neighborhoods) to demonstrate authentic connection.

Demonstrate Field-Specific Interest: Research organizations thoroughly. For biomedical programs (Cincinnati Children’s, UC Health), showcase science coursework, lab experience, and healthcare passion. For technology (INTERalliance, Ohio Tech Internship), highlight coding projects, IT skills, and technical competitions. For business (P&G, Fifth Third), demonstrate leadership and business acumen. For arts (museums), share creative experiences and cultural engagement.

Highlight Midwest Values: Cincinnati employers value hard work, humility, loyalty, community commitment, and collaborative spirit. Emphasize reliability through attendance records, long-term commitments, teamwork examples, and community service, demonstrating the Midwestern work ethic.

Address Cincinnati’s Business Leadership: Cincinnati has more Fortune 500 headquarters per capita than anywhere else in America. Programs value understanding of Cincinnati’s corporate culture, business excellence, and economic impact. Research major employers (P&G, Kroger, Fifth Third, GE Aviation, Western & Southern).

Quantify Your Achievements: Use specific numbers. Replace “science club member” with “led 10-person team designing water quality testing system, winning Ohio Science Day regional competition among 35 schools.” Change “volunteer work” to “coordinated weekly tutoring program serving 40 students, improving average math scores by 15% over semester.”

Apply Strategically Across Selectivity Levels: Competition varies widely. Apply to 10-12 programs spanning highly selective (Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, P&G, GE Aviation), moderately competitive (INTERalliance, Fifth Third, University of Cincinnati), and accessible (Ohio Tech Internship with wage subsidies, CPS Career Experience, libraries, City government).

Customize Everything: Never submit identical applications. Tailor each cover letter referencing specific Cincinnati characteristics, neighborhoods, or business culture. Cincinnati’s identity as Fortune 500 hub and river city should inform applications.

Leverage Greater Cincinnati Geography: Cincinnati metro spans three states (Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana). Consider opportunities across region—downtown Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky (Covington, Newport), suburban locations (Mason, West Chester, Blue Ash). Many programs welcome tri-state applicants.

Interview Preparation

Many competitive Cincinnati programs conduct interviews:

• Research the organization’s mission, recent news, and current projects
• Practice common questions: “Tell me about yourself,” “Why this internship?” “What interests you about Cincinnati’s business/healthcare leadership?”
• Prepare 2-3 thoughtful questions about responsibilities, mentorship, or skills development
• Dress professionally (Cincinnati maintains traditional Midwest professional standards—business casual minimum)
• For video interviews, test technology, ensure good lighting and clean background
• Arrive 15-20 minutes early for in-person interviews (factor in bridge traffic if crossing Ohio River)
• Send thank-you email within 24 hours
• Be prepared to discuss Cincinnati’s Fortune 500 culture and your fit with Midwestern business values

Students considering opportunities in other Ohio cities should review internships for high school students in Dayton or internships for high school students in Akron.

External Resources

INTERalliance of Greater Cincinnati
Technology internships and IT career pathways – interalliance.org

Ohio Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation
High School Tech Internship Program – workforce.ohio.gov

Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber
Business connections and workforce development – cincinnatichamber.com

Cincinnati Public Schools – Career & Technical Education
School-coordinated internships and CTE programs – cps-k12.org

U.S. Department of Labor – Youth Rules
Federal guidance on child labor laws and teen employment rights – youthrules.gov

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there paid internships for high school students in Cincinnati?

Yes, approximately 70-75% of Cincinnati high school internship programs offer monetary compensation ranging from $13-22/hour. Ohio High School Tech Internship Program offers competitive wages with 75% employer reimbursement up to $5,000 per intern, making tech internships highly accessible.

When should I apply for summer internships in Cincinnati?

Apply between November and March depending on competitiveness, with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital opening early November (deadline February 1), P&G programs in fall (August-October), and most rolling programs accepting through spring. Ohio Tech Internship Program accepts applications year-round through INTERalliance.

Do I need work experience to get a Cincinnati internship?

No for accessible programs (Ohio Tech Internship, CPS Career Experience, libraries, City government, INTERalliance introductory positions), but highly competitive programs (Cincinnati Children’s 3.5+ GPA required, P&G, GE Aviation) expect strong academics, relevant coursework, and demonstrated passion through projects or competitions.

What parts of Cincinnati have the most internship opportunities?

Downtown Cincinnati (P&G, Fifth Third Bank, City Hall, courts, museums) and Clifton (University of Cincinnati, UC Health) offer the highest concentrations. Evendale (GE Aviation), Avondale (Cincinnati Zoo), Northern Kentucky cities, and suburban corporate offices (INTERalliance companies throughout the tri-state) provide additional opportunities.

Can I do internships during the school year or only summer?

Both exist with 70% operating summers (June-August) and 30% offering academic year options. School-year programs include INTERalliance internships (academic year placements common), Ohio Tech Internship (year-round), CPS Career Experience (semester options), Hamilton County Courts (semester sessions), and libraries (year-round).

How competitive are Cincinnati internship programs?

Competition varies from exceptionally selective Cincinnati Children’s Hospital (3.5+ weighted GPA, regional applicant pool) and P&G (national competition) to moderately competitive INTERalliance and University of Cincinnati (30-40%) to accessible Ohio Tech Internship with employer wage subsidies and CPS Career Experience (most qualified applicants placed).

What industries are strongest for Cincinnati high school internships?

Cincinnati’s top internship industries include Healthcare (Cincinnati Children’s Hospital #1 nationally, UC Health), Consumer Products (P&G headquarters), Financial Services (Fifth Third Bank), Technology (INTERalliance companies: Kroger Technology, Western & Southern IT), Aerospace (GE Aviation), and Manufacturing (strong regional presence), reflecting Fortune 500 concentration.

Can I earn school credit for Cincinnati internships?

Yes, most Cincinnati-area schools offer academic credit through Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. Cincinnati Public Schools specifically coordinates credit-bearing internships through Career Experience Program, and most programs qualify with requirements including supervisor evaluations, minimum hours, and reflection assignments.

How do I manage transportation for Cincinnati internships?

Cincinnati has Metro bus service and streetcar (Downtown/Over-the-Rhine), but most locations require personal transportation. Northern Kentucky locations especially need cars as no direct transit connects across Ohio River except buses, though some downtown positions are transit-accessible.

Do Cincinnati programs accept students from Kentucky and Indiana?

Yes, many programs explicitly welcome Greater Cincinnati tri-state applicants (Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana). Cincinnati Children’s Hospital specifically includes Boone, Kenton, and Campbell counties in Kentucky as eligible, and INTERalliance serves regional students regardless of state, though some government positions require Ohio residency.

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Explore More Internship Opportunities

Expand Your Search Beyond Cincinnati

Looking for additional opportunities or considering programs in other regions? Explore these resources:

• Internships for High School Students in Ohio – Statewide programs across Ohio
• Internships for High School Students in Cleveland – Northeast Ohio opportunities
• Internships for High School Students in Columbus – State capital programs
• Internships for High School Students in Dayton – Southwest Ohio neighbor
• Internships for High School Students in Indianapolis – Midwest regional hub
• Internships for High School Students in Chicago – Major Midwest metro
• Internships for High School Students in Detroit – Great Lakes opportunities
• Internships for High School Students in Pittsburgh – Neighboring Pennsylvania
• Internships for High School Students in Louisville – Kentucky programs
• Internships for High School Students in Nashville – Southeast opportunities
• Internships for High School Students in Atlanta – Southern business hub
• Virtual Internships for High School Students – Remote opportunities nationwide
• Browse All High School Internship Locations – Complete national directory

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Final Thoughts

Securing internships for high school students in Cincinnati provides transformative opportunities in America’s Fortune 500 capital with more headquarters per capita than anywhere else, combining world-class pediatric research at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital ranked #1 nationally, accessible technology pathways through INTERalliance and Ohio’s High School Tech Internship Program offering 75% wage subsidies to employers, consumer products innovation at Procter & Gamble’s global headquarters, financial services at Fifth Third Bank, and aerospace excellence at GE Aviation. Cincinnati’s unique concentration of corporate leadership, medical research excellence, growing tech sector, and strong tri-state community creates pathways for students from downtown Cincinnati to Northern Kentucky, Clifton to suburban locations across Hamilton, Butler, Warren, Clermont, Boone, Kenton, and Campbell counties.

Start your application process early with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital opening in November (February 1 deadline) and P&G programs accepting applications in fall. Apply to 10-12 opportunities spanning Cincinnati’s diverse industries while emphasizing your understanding of the Queen City’s business culture, Midwestern work ethic, and tri-state regional identity. Leverage Ohio’s exceptional wage subsidy program making tech internships highly accessible alongside competitive corporate programs to build professional experience that strengthens college applications and launches careers in Cincinnati’s thriving economy.

Questions about applications or need guidance? Contact your school’s CTE coordinator, reach out to INTERalliance at [email protected], visit Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber workforce development resources, or connect with program coordinators listed above for support services available to all Greater Cincinnati students.