The Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council (EDC) and the UMass Amherst iCons Program, under the umbrella of the iCons Industry Consortium, are joining forces to provide UMass iCons students with exceptional internship and career opportunities in western Massachusetts. This partnership highlights the collective strength of the University of Massachusetts Amherst, the iCons Program, and the EDC, demonstrating their commitment to fostering talent and economic growth in the region.

As a member of the EDC, UMass Amherst brings its renowned iCons Program to the forefront, further solidifying its dedication to interdisciplinary education and problem-solving. The iCons Program engages students in addressing real-world challenges alongside industry partners and esteemed faculty members from a range of STEM and business disciplines. Now, with the support of the EDC, UMass iCons students majoring in science, technology, engineering, math, health sciences, and business will have access to internship opportunities with local businesses, bolstering the regional economy.

The Western Mass EDC, known for its comprehensive understanding of the local business community, is actively identifying internship placements among its member organizations. This strategic collaboration not only benefits the students but also enhances the local economy by connecting businesses with talented and driven young professionals who possess strong communication and teamwork skills.

Rick Sullivan, President and CEO of the Western Mass EDC, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We’re excited to partner with UMass Amherst to showcase the advantages of living and working in western Mass. By bringing together exceptional students and local businesses, this collaboration creates a win-win situation, fostering mutual growth and development.”

Notably, the iCons Program has already successfully placed students in internships at three member organizations of the Western Mass EDC: US Tsubaki Chicopee, the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, and the Markens Group. These experiences have provided iCons students with valuable exposure to real-world work environments and have allowed them to contribute to the success of local businesses.

“The iCons Industry Consortium is thrilled to welcome the Western Mass EDC as an important partner,” said Scott Auerbach, Mahoney Family Sponsored Executive Director of the iCons Program. “The EDC’s knowledge of the local business community and its commitment to economic development are invaluable in helping our students find meaningful internships and jobs in Western Massachusetts.”

Through this collaboration, the Western Massachusetts EDC and the UMass Amherst iCons Program are paving the way for talented students to excel in their academic and professional pursuits while driving economic growth in the region. By nurturing the next generation of leaders and problem-solvers, this partnership will leave a lasting impact on both the students and the community as a whole.

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About the UMass iCons Program

The UMass iCons Program is a certificate program on real-world problem solving in biomedicine/biosystems and renewable energy, open to all students at UMass Amherst in science, technology, health sciences, engineering, math (STEM), and business. The mission of iCons is to inspire a diverse generation of innovators in STEM and business, with the attitudes and skills needed to solve problems facing society.