Building Your Talent Pipeline: Internships and Co-ops
The College of Engineering and Computing (CEC) at Miami University invites your organization to engage with our talented students through our internship and co-op programs. By hosting a CEC student, you play a vital role in bridging the gap between classroom theory and industry practice while building a robust pipeline for your future workforce.
CEC Co-op Program
Miami’s CEC co-op program is a selective, credit-bearing partnership among your organization, the student, and the University. Co-ops are paid, multi-term experiences aligned with university semesters, giving students the opportunity to alternate between full-time work and full-time study.
Co-op roles should provide meaningful technical work, formal supervision, regular feedback, and clearly defined learning outcomes. Because students contribute over an extended period, co-ops can support complex projects while allowing employers to develop a long-term talent pipeline and realize lasting organizational impact.
Review the Miami Co-op Policy.
Ready to Hire?
Your Role as an Employer
As a program partner, your organization commits to provide:
- Meaningful Work: Technical projects that allow students to apply and expand their classroom learning.
- Fair Compensation: Wages or salary comparable to similar roles in your organization.
- Mentorship: A designated supervisor who provides guidance and feedback.
- Collaboration: Coordination with the student and CEC co-op instructor to define and support learning objectives.
Benefits for Your Organization
- Access to Top Talent: Connect with motivated students from majors in Chemical, Paper, and Biomedical Engineering; Computer Science and Software Engineering; Electrical and Computer Engineering; and Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering.
- Business Impact: Engage students in substantive technical work that contributes to your organizational goals.
- Streamlined Recruitment: Build a pipeline of future full-time hires who are already familiar with your company culture and processes.
Considerations and Logistics
- Schedule Alignment: Work terms should align with University semesters. It is possible to combine work periods (e.g., a summer plus a fall semester) for a longer engagement.
- Hours: Students must work at least 20 hours per week, though most placements are 32–40 hours.
- Employment Status: Students must be hired as employees (not independent contractors) to ensure proper adherence to employment laws and supervision requirements.
- Support: While not mandatory, providing assistance with relocation or housing costs can significantly enhance your ability to attract top candidates.
Contact Us
To discuss a customized recruitment strategy or learn more about the co-op track, please reach out to Jenni Szolwinski, Director of Industry Relations.
Internship Program
Miami’s CEC internship program connects employers with talented students seeking short-term, hands-on professional experience. Internships are typically completed during the summer and provide students with opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting while exploring potential career paths.
Internships should offer meaningful work, appropriate supervision, and opportunities for professional growth. They are particularly well suited for organizations with defined projects, seasonal needs, or interest in evaluating potential future hires.
Review the Miami Internship Policy.
Ready to Hire?
Your Role as an Employer
As a program partner, your organization commits to provide:
- Meaningful Work: Projects that support student learning and connect to their academic program.
- Supervision: A professional supervisor to guide the student and support their development.
- Compliance and Communication: Adherence to applicable employment laws and ongoing communication with the student and University to ensure a successful experience.
Benefits for Your Organization
- Access to Top Talent: Connect with motivated students across a range of academic disciplines.
- Business Impact: Gain assistance with defined projects, seasonal initiatives, or short-term business needs.
- Streamlined Recruitment: Build a pipeline of future full-time hires who are already familiar with your company culture and processes
Contact Us
To discuss a customized recruitment strategy or learn more about the co-op track, please reach out to Jenni Szolwinski, Director of Industry Relations.
The Miami Advantage: The Entrepreneurial Mindset (KEEN)
Miami CEC is a member of the Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network (KEEN). Our students are trained to apply the "3 Cs" (Curiosity, Connections, and Creating Value) to their work. This means Miami students are prepared to look beyond their basic job descriptions to identify opportunities and add unique value to your organization.
