KIA&B_JanFeb2026-digital | Page 16

TALENT DEVELOPMENT

INTERNSHIP PROGRAMS: A PATH FORWARD

Written by Johanna Holling, The National Invest Program
What if one experience could help students discover a career path and help employers build their future workforce?
That’ s exactly what a strong internship program does – especially in the insurance industry.
Across the country, insurance agencies are facing real staffing challenges. At the same time, students are searching for meaningful, paid, real-world experiences that help them stand out after graduation. Internships bring those two needs together in a powerful way.
WHY INTERNSHIPS MATTER MORE THAN EVER
Internships are often a student’ s first introduction to the professional world— and research consistently shows they make a lasting impact. Students who complete internships are more confident in their career choices, more prepared for the workforce, and more likely to receive job offers after graduation.
For employers, internships reduce hiring risk, save Interns learn the culture, systems, and expectations upfront— making the transition to full-time employment smoother and more successful.
Simply put: internships create better outcomes for everyone involved.
INSURANCE INTERNSHIPS: REAL WORK, REAL SKILLS, REAL IMPACT
Insurance internships are far more than“ busy work.” Through programs like Invest, students gain handson exposure to real business operations, including:
• Client and customer communication
• Marketing and social media support
• Data entry and analysis using agency management systems
• Generating quotes, proposals, and certificates
14 KANSAS INSURANCE AGENT & BROKER