The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) has been recognized as a 2026 InternshipsVA Top Employer by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership through its InternshipsVA initiative. The designation recognizes Virginia employers that have developed exemplary internship programs that create meaningful benefits for both students and employers.
IALR was recognized alongside other InternshipsVA Top Employers at the Virginia Education and Workforce Conference on Oct. 1 in Richmond.
“Internships are one of the most effective ways to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences,” said Dr. Melanie Lewis, Vice President of Advanced Learning at IALR. “We are honored to receive this recognition from the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. Our internship program gives students meaningful opportunities to develop professional skills, explore career pathways and contribute to projects that have a lasting impact on our region.”
Each summer, IALR offers paid internship opportunities across a variety of disciplines, including applied research, manufacturing, advanced learning, economic development, information technology, marketing and communications and more. Through hands-on projects and meaningful responsibilities, interns contribute directly to IALR’s mission of driving economic transformation across Southern Virginia while gaining valuable professional experience. In the summer of 2026, IALR hosted 15 interns through its eight-week internship program. Additionally, five former IALR interns currently work full-time for the organization.
Some departments also offer paid, part-time school-year internship opportunities.
“High-quality internships create value for both students and employers,” said Jessie Vernon, Director of Employer Engagement & Experiential Learning at IALR. “Students gain confidence, experience and professional connections while organizations benefit from fresh perspectives and emerging talent. We are proud of the interns and supervisors who make our program successful each year.”
Beyond hosting interns, IALR supports employers throughout Southern Virginia in developing effective internship and work-based learning programs by providing resources, technical assistance and employer engagement services that help businesses strengthen talent pipelines and connect students with career opportunities.
About IALR
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves Virginia as a regional catalyst for economic transformation with applied research, advanced learning, manufacturing advancement, conference center services and economic development efforts. IALR’s major footprint focuses within Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg along with the cities of Martinsville and Danville.
