Economic Development Internship
Work on real projects. Build real connections. Launch your career.
About Forward Lawrence & LCEDC
Forward Lawrence and the Lawrence County Economic Development Corporation (LCEDC) lead strategic efforts to attract investment, support local businesses, redevelop sites, and strengthen workforce opportunities across Lawrence County. Our mission is to foster sustainable economic growth and enhance quality of life through partnerships, innovation, and community-focused development.
About the Internship
This paid internship provides hands-on experience in economic development, site readiness, business support, and public-private partnerships. Interns will contribute to real projects that support business attraction, workforce development, and community revitalization.
Key Responsibilities
• Assist with GIS mapping and site readiness data (utilities, transportation access, infrastructure)
• Support business financing reviews and loan evaluation processes
• Attend meetings, site visits, and community events
• Assist with grant research and funding opportunity analysis
• Prepare agendas, meeting minutes, and professional correspondence
• Develop site marketing materials and promotional content
• Support project tracking, deadlines, and organizational workflows
Recent Projects & Partnerships
As an intern, you will gain exposure to high-impact projects and collaborate with regional partners across public and private sectors. Recent initiatives include:
• Industrial Site Redevelopment: Supporting cleanup and redevelopment planning for key brownfield sites to prepare land for new manufacturing and job creation.
• Business Expansion & Attraction: Assisting with site readiness and data collection to support companies evaluating Lawrence County for expansion and relocation.
• Workforce Development Partnerships: Collaborating with local school districts, colleges, and training providers to strengthen career pathways in manufacturing, agriculture, and skilled trades.
• Grant-Funded Community Improvements: Supporting projects funded through state and federal programs that enhance infrastructure, water systems, and community revitalization efforts.
• Regional Collaboration: Working alongside municipal leaders, state agencies, engineers, developers, and local businesses to advance economic growth initiatives.
These projects provide meaningful exposure to the professionals, organizations, and decision-making processes that shape regional development, making this experience highly valuable for future careers.
Preferred Qualifications
Pursuing a degree in Business (preferred Business Economics, or Business Analytics) but open to other business majors
Interest in economic development, finance, or public policy
Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills
Proficiency with Microsoft Office; GIS familiarity is a plus
Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
What You Will Gain
Extensive networking opportunities with business leaders, developers, municipal officials, and regional partners
Real-world workforce experience working on active economic development projects
Resume-building project work with measurable community impact
Exposure to grants, site development, and public-private partnerships
Mentorship from economic development professionals
Our Work Environment
Forward Lawrence and LCEDC offer a professional yet fun and collaborative work environment. Interns are treated as part of the team, included in meaningful projects, and encouraged to learn, ask questions, and build connections that support their future careers.
Internship Details
Location: Lawrence County, Pennsylvania
Schedule: Flexible based on academic calendar
Format: In-person with occasional field visits
Compensation: Paid internship
How to Apply
Send your resume and a short statement of interest to:
Maxwell Frederick
Subject Line: Economic Development Internship Application