SBTDC’s Technology Commercialization Internship Provides 4000 Hours of Service

interns and mentors

SBTDC Summer Internship Program 2015 interns and mentors.

The SBTDC’s 2015 Technology Commercialization Summer Internship Program recently wrapped up with final presentations. Ten students served as interns this year, representing five university programs. MBA Programs from NC State, Duke, UNC and Western Carolina provided a total of six students. In addition, this year marked the 3nd year of participation for both the Duke Masters of Engineering Management and UNC Pharmacy programs that provided a total of four students. These ten students collectively provided 4000 hours of service to the 20 small businesses with whom they worked.

John Ujvari, the SBTDC’s SBIR Specialist, has been coordinating the Summer Internship Program for over a decade. Our university partners promote the Summer Program and assist in the identification of highly qualified students who are ready to work as client-facing consultants. The SBTDC’s Technology Commercialization Team participates extensively each year as mentors, attending group sessions and meeting often with the students to answer questions and provide guidance.

Clients are selected for invitation in January each year and each client who accepts the invitation knows they have committed to a long-term relationship with their student and the SBTDC. Clients are required to attend several orientation sessions, develop project descriptions, and guide their student throughout the 10-week program.

Each year we are impressed with the caliber and persistence of the students who participate in our Summer Internship Program. The students and the SBTDC’s Technology Commercialization Team come away from the program inspired by the enthusiasm and hard work demonstrated by our clients as they bring innovative products to market.

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