Governor Signs Legislation Creating State Internship Coordinator

Virginia students seeking internships with state agencies may soon find more opportunities available following the signing of bipartisan legislation creating the Commonwealth’s first State Internship Coordinator.

Governor Abigail Spanberger signed Senate Bill 286 and House Bill 54 on Wednesday in Richmond, establishing a new position within state government tasked with coordinating and expanding internship programs across Virginia agencies.

The coordinator will focus on increasing access to internships, improving recruitment efforts and helping students connect with career opportunities in state government.

The legislation was sponsored by Sen. Lashrecse Aird and Del. Rip Sullivan and received bipartisan support in the General Assembly.

During the signing ceremony, Spanberger said the new position is intended to help students gain practical work experience while encouraging them to pursue careers in Virginia.

“When a student interns with a state agency, learns how our government works, builds relationships, and discovers a career path, they are far more likely to stay,” Spanberger said.

Supporters of the legislation say the measure will help strengthen Virginia’s workforce pipeline at a time when many experienced public employees are approaching retirement.

Aird, who said her own public service career began with a government internship, described the legislation as a way to create a more intentional pathway for students and young professionals interested in public service careers.

“Public service should be accessible to talented people from every corner of Virginia,” Aird said.

Sullivan said internships provide students with valuable workplace experience while helping employers identify future talent.

“As one of the largest employers in Virginia, it is imperative that the Virginia state government lead by example by expanding quality internships and attracting talent to support its vital mission,” Sullivan said.

The legislation builds on the administration’s broader workforce development efforts, including InternshipsVA, a statewide initiative launched earlier this year to connect students with paid internship opportunities.

The new coordinator position could help expand internship opportunities for students attending colleges and universities across Northern Virginia, including those interested in careers in public service, policy, technology and state government.

According to the Virginia Business Higher Education Council, more than 90 percent of Virginians support investing in internship opportunities for students.