More than 100 college students complete paid internships with Indiana employers, building skills, solving real business challenges, and strengthening the state’s talent pipeline

INDIANAPOLIS (July 30, 2026) — More than 100 college students from Indiana and across the country have completed TechPoint’s 2026 Xtern program, spending the summer working alongside Indiana employers to solve real business challenges while building the skills, experience, and professional connections that will shape their careers and the state’s future workforce. 

The 2026 class included 62 students from 32 Indiana communities. Students worked with 20 employers across the state, illustrating how Indiana’s technology talent pipeline connects communities, higher education, and industry. 

Over 10 weeks, Xterns worked in software engineering, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, product management, marketing, and other high-demand fields. Xterns also took part in professional development, networking opportunities and community experiences so they can launch careers and build lasting connections in Indiana. 

“Every day, we hear conversations about how technology is changing the future of work,” said Eric Christopher, president and CEO of TechPoint. “Our Xtern program reminds us that the future is powered by people. These students spent the summer solving problems, collaborating with teammates and applying their creativity and technical skills to meaningful work. They are exactly the kind of talent Indiana employers need to compete and grow.” 

Since its launch in 2014, Xtern has connected students with Indiana employers through nearly 2,000 internship experiences, with many participants returning for multiple summers. As a result, Xtern has become a well-established pathway for companies to develop future talent while giving students practical experience that often leads to full-time employment. Nearly 60 percent of Xtern alumni begin their professional careers in Indiana, and nearly half remain in the state three years after graduating from college. 

The 2026 Xterns supported employers in healthcare, manufacturing, software, logistics and life sciences, demonstrating both the wide range of technology careers available in Indiana and the growing demand for talent across industries. 

“One of the most rewarding parts of Xtern is seeing students recognize the opportunities available to them right here in Indiana,” said Taylor Dooley, director of talent programs at TechPoint. “They leave with new skills, new professional relationships and the confidence to build their careers right here in Indiana.” 

Taylor Dooley (left) presents Patrick Green of Sallie Mae with the 2026 XTERN Inclusion Award for making accessibility and usability central to his work.

Members of the 2026 Xtern class presented their work during TechPoint’s recent Community Connect, where employers, higher education leaders and emerging talent gathered to discuss workforce development, artificial intelligence and the skills that remain essential as technology continues to evolve.

Read about the XTERN celebration to find out which students, mentors and organizations were honored.

About TechPoint

TechPoint is the CEOs of Indiana Corporate Partnership’s branded initiative for Indiana’s tech-powered ecosystem driving the digital economy through talent, innovation and community with the overall goal of making Indiana a leader in digital adoption. TechPoint works with public, private, and industry partners to strengthen the tech talent pipeline, enhance resource connectivity for enterprise organizations and startups alike, and elevate the industry by activating the community and amplifying stories of success. For more information, visit techpoint.org.

Media Contact

Lara Beck
lara@beckcommunicationsgroup.com