“Network interface” is more than a computer term when it comes to Enterprise’s successful efforts to identify and hire the best and brightest in information technology.

Enterprise actively networks with the IT community in St. Louis, one of the nation’s fastest-growing high-tech markets, to ensure that Enterprise brings on board highly qualified employees.

A perfect example was the recent e-Hacks event at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville. Billed as an “invention convention,” the event ran non-stop for 36 hours and challenged college IT students to create applications and software programs.

Enterprise representatives were there to mentor, guide and judge the competition.

Time Well-Spent

Of the participants, three are current interns in the IT department at Enterprise: Marial G., Tom S. and Mel J.

Marial’s internship involves helping automate rental applications testing. Tom is focusing on information security awareness. Mel is working to create a dashboard that monitors the health of applications.

“We’re excited to have them with us this summer,” says JR Maxfield, Lead Talent Acquisition Specialist. “The intern program is one way we plan to fill critical IT positions and infuse the IT workforce with new talent.”

Part of the community

The intern program is just one of many ways that Enterprise interacts with the IT community.

Enterprise sponsors events similar to the one at SIUE, sends employees to speak on IT issues at schools and organizations, and encourages employees to volunteer in the community to help educate and teach underserved youth about coding. Enterprise IT employees also serve on boards at local universities to advise on their curriculum so they are teaching students relevant skills.

Tom S., who graduated from SIUE this spring, is excited about his internship opportunity because it will give him a chance to focus on the growing field of security.

“Security is not just an IT issue; it’s a business issue,” Tom says. “You don’t have to be technically inclined to do your job securely.”

“I’m confident our interns will do a great job and that most will leave here with full-time employment offers,” JR says. “The program and our other activities with the local IT network give us opportunities to meet students and find top talent to join Enterprise full-time.”