ROCK HILL, SOUTH CAROLINA – Winthrop University and Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) have agreed to partner on a paid internship program for students at the Savannah River Site, located near Aiken, South Carolina, beginning in summer 2024.
Internship opportunities will allow students to work in positions that align with their area of study so they will have hands-on learning experiences. Those fields are science, technology, engineering, mathematics, IT/cyber security, public affairs, technical writing, regulatory compliance, and all business areas such as finance, accounting, supply chain and procurement.
“The collaborative partnership between Winthrop and SRNS will provide access to fully funded and highly competitive internships with a primary emphasis on STEM, computer science, cybersecurity, data science, and various aspects of business operations,” said Takita Sumter, chemistry professor and dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “SRNS also offers registered apprenticeship opportunities that will support a potential employment pipeline for Winthrop students.”
According to the agreement, Winthrop agrees to promote the internships and then screen candidates who have earned a minimum of 60 hours (our minimum requirement is completing 12 hours, they can establish a higher standard if necessary) with a minimum of a 2.5 grade point average. Students will receive competitive pay along with opportunities for local housing.
This project aligns very well with the Flight Ready initiative whose goal is to ensure that Winthrop students have opportunities to expand their knowledge and experiences threw off-campus internships. Those engaging in the SRNS internship program will employ cutting-edge approaches while developing the skills needed for entering the workforce.
SRNS has also donated $5,000 to support students in Winthrop’s Eagle-STEM Scholars program. Senior representatives from Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, including a Winthrop graduate, have been actively involved in establishing a presence on campus by taking part in the most recent career fair and meeting with faculty and students. A team from Winthrop is also planning to visit the Savannah River Site to discuss potential collaborative opportunities for students and faculty. The SRNS staff will also provide workshops on resume writing and interview preparation in collaboration with Winthrop’s office of Career Development and Internships.
The details of the program are outlined in a memorandum of understanding between the two entities.
For more information, contact the dean’s office in the College of Arts and Sciences, at 803/323-2160.
