MAC convened more than 1,000 interns from the region’s top companies to connect them to the metro Atlanta business community and one another.
This summer saw the highly successful return of the Metro Atlanta Chamber (MAC)’s ATL Interns After 5 event series, which was designed to introduce aspiring young professionals to the region’s business community. This signature event series is just one aspect of MAC’s long-term strategy to attract and retain talent.
The 2023 edition of ATL Interns After 5 brought together 1,041 students interning at 91 of metro Atlanta’s leading companies. The events introduced them to different aspects of the region’s business environment and provided them an opportunity to connect with their peers.
The interns that participated represent 125 different colleges and universities around the country, a number that shows the region’s business reach.
MAC’s President and CEO, Katie Kirkpatrick, says what sets the series apart is the exposure it provides, “ATL Interns After 5 is about connecting young people to the culture, stakeholders, and opportunities in metro Atlanta. With these events, we are making the business community feel more accessible to those who are just getting their foot in the door.”
ATL Interns After 5 gave students unparalleled exposure to business leaders from some of the region’s top industries, including well-known brands like Mercedes-Benz USA, BlackRock, FanDuel, TK Elevator, and more. The events series also helped fuel students’ interest in metro Atlanta as a prime location for growing their careers.
One intern said, “I love how the city has such a wide span of people, businesses, opportunities, and activities. I feel like this program helped me connect with people professionally and socially. I would walk away each time with new ideas of things to do and places to check out. I also didn’t even know the extent of businesses here.” Ultimately, the power of ATL Interns After 5 lies in its potential to develop an enduring excitement for what the region represents.
Looking ahead to 2024, MAC will continue its work to strengthen metro Atlanta’s talent pipelines through the ATL Interns After 5 program and other initiatives.
About Metro Atlanta Chamber:
The Metro Atlanta Chamber (MAC) serves as a catalyst for a more prosperous and vibrant region. To advance economic growth and improve metro Atlanta’s quality of place, MAC is focused on starting, growing and recruiting companies to the 29-county metro Atlanta region. The Chamber is also focused on expanding the region’s innovation economy by promoting and strengthening connections to drive Atlanta’s innovation and entrepreneurial culture. MAC is committed to being an active voice for the business community, serving as an advocate for a competitive business climate and promoting Atlanta’s story. For more information, visit www.MetroAtlantaChamber.com.
