Conway’s Conductor program partners with Facebook to launch student career initiative

A Facebook initiative that connects college students with local businesses in central Arkansas is set to launch this spring in Conway.

Facebook’s Career Connections program will first hold a two-day Skills Summit in late March where Arkansas’ college students will learn interview skills, how to master digital tools and get other workforce-ready tips. The program will then match students with a business in central Arkansas for a paid summer internship.

Besides training and an internship opportunity, students will also be paired with mentors working at Facebook who will provide guidance to the students throughout the internship. Facebook is currently looking for students to apply for the program in central Arkansas.

The Facebook work initiative is part of a collaborative effort with the Conductor, Conway Area Chamber of Commerce, Little Rock Chamber of Commerce and the Arkansas Economic Development Commission to identify businesses to participate in the pilot program. The Conductor program began as a public-private partnership with the University of Central Arkansas and Startup Junkie to drive innovation and entrepreneurship in the Conway area.

According to organizers, local businesses will be paired with students that intern with the Silicon Valley-based social media giant. The Career Connections skills program will be March 30-31, with interviews and selection of fellows beginning in April. The fellowship will run from May through August, where local students will receive ongoing training, mentorship and check-ins throughout the four-month course.

Career Connections is accepting applications from local businesses until January 31. It is accepting applications from students until February 15. To apply for the Skills Summit and Fellowship (students only), visit here.