Nearly 300 Students Connect with 30 Employers at Part-Time Job & Internship Fair

The energy was high, and opportunity was everywhere at the Spring 2026 Part-Time Job & Internship Fair at Ivy Tech Indianapolis.

Nearly 300 students connected with 30 employers representing a wide range of industries, including construction, education, non-profits, city government, healthcare, security, staffing services, hospitality, and more. Taking over the Bowen Commons of the recently reopened Illinois Fall Creek Center, the event created a dynamic space where students could explore career pathways, gain professional insight, and take meaningful steps toward employment.

“We observed students engaging in thoughtful conversations with employers about available jobs and internships, as well as the qualifications and skills needed to be successful,” Jenny Trusler, Talent Connection Manager at Ivy Tech Indianapolis, shared. “Many students provided resumes, and some were even scheduled for interviews at a later date.”

Real-World Experience While Earning a Degree

For many Ivy Tech students, part-time roles and internships are more than résumé builders — they are essential stepping stones.

“Part-time jobs and internships allow students to attend school and work while balancing other responsibilities,” Trusler shared. “They also provide students with the opportunity to gain important work experience that may lead to long-term career opportunities.”

With Central Indiana’s growing demand for skilled workers, events like this play a vital role in strengthening workforce pipelines. The fair was designed specifically to connect students with employers who are actively hiring for internships, part-time positions, and more, ensuring talent stays local and industries have access to prepared, motivated candidates.

RELATED: High School Students Earn Money While Preparing for Advanced Manufacturing Careers

Professional Preparation Matters 

Students didn’t just leave with job leads; they also gained free, brand-new professional headshots.

“We recommend that students create a LinkedIn account to make connections with employers, and a professional headshot is key to a strong LinkedIn presence,” Trusler said.

Students who came prepared stood out, Trusler said. For future fairs – such as the annual Youth Opportunities Fair and Indianapolis Job and Resource Fair – she encourages attendees to:

• Bring an updated resume

• Review the list of employers on HireIvy ahead of time

• Research companies and open positions

• Approach conversations confidently and professionally

“Looking prepared at the event will help a student shine,” Trusler added.

Strengthening Connections Between Education and Employment

The fair was made possible by employer partners committed to investing in Ivy Tech students. Event sponsor Clover Senior Care & Home Health played a key role in helping create meaningful connections between education and employment.

“Our goal with the career fair is to connect students with employers who are hiring,” Jenny said. “We know that Central Indiana needs more skilled workers, and our goal is to connect these workers to employers.”

By bringing together nearly 300 students and dozens of hiring organizations, Ivy Tech Indianapolis continues to bridge the gap between classroom learning and career success — preparing students not just to graduate, but to thrive in Indiana’s evolving workforce.

MORE: Construction Skills Training Program Addresses State Labor Shortage

Future Opportunities

Employers and job seekers should stay tuned for more job fairs this year, including the Youth Opportunities Fair on March 12 and the Indianapolis Job and Resource Fair this summer (date TBD). Both are held at the Conference Center & Culinary Institute and hosted in partnership with Congressman André Carson.