FORT WAYNE — Two Trine University students were chosen to be part of the Greater Fort
Wayne Inc. (GFW) Fellows Class of 2018, a year-long experience aimed at helping them
develop skills and helping Allen County retain top talent.
Conner Putman, a junior management major from Ridgefield, Connecticut, and John Anderson,
a senior mechanical engineering major from Carmel, Indiana, were among 17 students
selected though a competitive application and interview process by staff from GFW
Inc. and 13 host companies.
The GFW Fellows program promotes an environment in which students, local companies
and Allen County as a whole can benefit. Through the program, students receive a paid,
project-based internship, free summer housing, personal development workshops, networking
events and community service opportunities. Companies receive highly qualified interns
who assist with critical projects — bolstering the companies’ talent pipelines and
the interns’ resumes — many times leading to full-time employment. Allen County receives
young professionals ready to contribute to a vibrant community.
Anderson has been awarded an internship at Triton Metal Products and Putman has been
awarded a position at Greater Fort Wayne Inc.
“This program is a wonderful opportunity for students, companies of all sizes and
our community,” said Eric Doden, CEO of Greater Fort Wayne Inc. “Every year, we hear
stories of GFW Fellows who make substantial impacts at their host companies, and the
students tend to fall in love with everything our area has to offer. It’s a tangible
way to help retain talent here in Allen County.”
Students will attend monthly personal development workshops that focus on problem
solving, communication styles, critical thinking, financial literacy, professionalism,
civic engagement and personal brand protection. Their 12-week paid summer internships
begin May 21 and include housing. The project-based internship experience is designed
to fill entry-level talent pipelines for GFW Inc. investors that may result in permanent
job opportunities for the Fellows upon their graduation.
“I look forward to the energy, insight and results the Fellows provide each summer,”
said Adrian Guenther, vice president, Individual Annuity Customer Service at Lincoln
Financial Group. “Whether we are managing them, mentoring them or working alongside
them, we all grow from the experience."
Greater Fort Wayne (GFW) Inc. serves Fort Wayne and Allen County, Indiana, as its
primary point of contact for economic growth. GFW Inc. focuses on prosperity and community
vibrancy through economic development, advocacy, programs and resources that support
business success, leadership development, graduate retention and community engagement.
To learn more, visit greaterfortwayneinc.com.