Global leader dedicates resources to identifying, training the next generation of innovators
When it comes to fostering future talent, Workiva’s internship program stands out as a model of innovation and impact. Headquartered from its location in the Iowa State University Research Park (ISURP) in Ames, Iowa, this global leader in connected reporting and compliance technology is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of professionals through an internship program designed to provide meaningful experiences, foster long-term connections, and bolster the company’s strategic goals.
At the heart of this program is a unique relationship with Iowa State University, one of several key institutions Workiva partners with to recruit high-quality interns.
A Program with Reach and Impact
Over the years, Workiva’s internship program has grown into a robust initiative that attracts more than 100 interns annually. According to Melissa Farmer, Manager of Talent Acquisition Operations and Programs at Workiva, the program’s success lies in its ability to provide flexibility, longevity, and opportunities for growth.
“We typically hire about 100 interns a year, with many starting in January or May and working part-time during the school year or full-time in the summer,” Farmer says. “We’re proud to offer extensions beyond a single internship, allowing some students to remain with us for up to two years. This flexibility fosters deeper connections with managers and mentors, creating a pipeline for future full-time roles.”
The program spans multiple departments, with the largest representation in engineering. Approximately 25 to 30 software engineering interns join Workiva each year, and many contribute directly to the company’s innovative efforts, even earning spots on patents. Other departments, including marketing, customer experience, and sales, also welcome interns, with new roles continuously being developed to meet the company’s evolving needs. For example, Workiva recently introduced a Territory Development internship to support growth in its sales pipeline.
A Strategic Recruitment Approach
Recruitment for Workiva’s intern program is both localized and far-reaching. While a significant number of interns come from Iowa State University, Workiva also recruits nationally, partnering with schools like Montana State, Arizona State, and the University of Colorado-Denver. The program’s reach is further extended through collaborations with organizations like ColorStack, which focuses on increasing representation in the tech industry.
For Iowa State students, Workiva’s proximity and presence are particularly advantageous. The company’s engineering career fair interviews and office tours offer students the chance to see firsthand what an internship at Workiva entails. This targeted approach paid off in 2024 when all 13 Iowa State students who received engineering intern offers accepted them.
“About a third of our software engineering interns are typically Iowa State students,” Farmer says. “The university’s strong engineering program, combined with our Ames-based team’s presence, creates a natural synergy that benefits both Workiva and the students.”
Meaningful Experiences That Build Careers
Workiva’s program goes beyond traditional internships to focus on personal and professional growth. Interns are encouraged to request feedback from colleagues, participate in mentorship opportunities, and engage in sessions on career development. Highlights of the program include talks with Workiva’s CEO, workshops on sustainability, and training sessions led by the company’s people development team.
In 2024, Workiva piloted an in-person event for engineering interns, bringing remote and Ames-based interns together for collaboration and networking. The initiative was so successful that it will be repeated in 2025.
“We’re as much about offering career development as we are about filling roles,” Farmer says. “Our goal is to create an environment where interns feel valued, supported, and equipped for their future careers.”
Driving Strategic Goals
The internship program is integral to Workiva’s talent pipeline. In 2024, the company doubled its intern-to-full-time conversion rate, with over a quarter of interns transitioning to permanent roles. This success extends beyond engineering to departments like marketing, where new entry-level roles have been introduced to facilitate conversions.
“We’re seeing more teams across the organization thinking strategically about how to create full-time opportunities for interns,” Farmer says. “It’s a win-win: we retain top talent, and interns gain valuable career opportunities.”
A Unique Connection with Iowa State University
Workiva’s ties to Iowa State University run deep. Many Workiva employees are ISU alumni, and these connections have fostered a strong relationship between the company and the university. From sponsoring student groups to participating in mock interview programs, Workiva is actively engaged in supporting Iowa State students.
“We’re incredibly proud of our partnership with Iowa State,” Farmer says. “The university produces high-quality interns who consistently impress us with their talent and drive. It’s more than just convenience; it’s about building a meaningful relationship that benefits everyone involved.”
Looking Ahead
As Workiva continues to refine and expand its internship program, one thing remains clear: the company is committed to nurturing talent and making a lasting impact. Whether through in-person events, innovative roles, or strategic university partnerships, Workiva’s approach sets a high bar for what an internship program can achieve.
“We’re not just creating jobs; we’re building futures,” says Emily Forrester, SVP & Chief People Officer at Workiva. “Our interns are an essential part of our mission to connect and simplify complex work. They bring fresh perspectives and energy that drive our company forward.”