LEXINGTON, Ky. — Mayor Linda Gorton announced a new internship pilot program aimed at boosting technology employment in the region, partnering with local businesses and educational institutions to create career pathways for students pursuing degrees in technology fields.

Under the initiative, selected employers will receive partial wage reimbursement for up to two tech-based intern positions, according to the city's announcement. The pilot program anticipates funding between 30 and 40 internships at an initial cost of $90,000. The recommendation came from TEConomy Partners, an economic development consulting firm that recently completed a Technology Ecosystem Development Study for Lexington.

"Our goal is to grow tech employment by establishing new connections among our educational institutions, students, workers and employers," Gorton said in a statement. "We want to retain talent, and meet the demands of our growing technology sector."

Eligible students must be enrolled full-time at a partnering university or college and must be within two years of completing their degrees. Each internship must consist of at least 120 hours of work, or approximately 20 hours per week for six weeks.

Councilmember-at-Large James Brown highlighted the program's potential to build a local tech workforce. "By connecting local tech companies, educators, and students, we are building a pipeline of opportunity that empowers the next generation of talent to pursue meaningful careers right here in Lexington, while helping our businesses develop the skilled workforce they need," Brown said.

Dave Sevigny, District 10 councilmember, drew on his own experience in information technology. "When I owned an IT company, internships were essential. They helped us cultivate talent, strengthen our culture, and identify future leaders," Sevigny said. "Some of those interns are now leading the company twenty years later."

The initiative aligns with regional economic development priorities, as Lexington's tech and biotech sectors continue to expand alongside established industries like automotive and advanced manufacturing.