The Intern Engagement Program is a workforce development initiative led by the Watertown Development Company (WDC) to enhance the experience of college and post‑secondary interns working in Watertown, South Dakota. The program is designed to help interns connect with the community, build relationships, and experience the quality of life in Watertown—increasing the likelihood they return after graduation as full‑time employees.

By supporting intern engagement beyond the workplace, the program strengthens local talent pipelines and supports long‑term workforce retention for area employers.

Program Goals

• Increase intern satisfaction and sense of belonging
• Strengthen relationships between interns, employers, and the community
• Highlight Watertown’s amenities, businesses, and lifestyle
• Improve post‑graduation retention of emerging talent
• Support employers in attracting and retaining future workforce

Key Program Components

Passport to Watertown
The Passport to Watertown is the program’s core engagement tool. It is distributed to participating employers for their interns and includes local attractions, events, dining options, discounts, and QR codes linking interns to community resources. The passport encourages self‑guided exploration and meaningful interaction with Watertown’s amenities.

Padfolio & Welcome Materials
Interns receive padfolios containing the Passport to Watertown, community information, and employer‑supported incentives when available. These materials provide a welcoming introduction and practical guidance for living and working in the community.

Intern Networking & Engagement Events
When feasible, WDC coordinates optional summer networking events that bring together interns from multiple employers. These events foster peer connections, introduce interns to community gathering spaces, and strengthen employer collaboration.

Employer Participation & Support
Employers voluntarily participate by requesting Passports for their interns. WDC provides program materials, coordinates engagement efforts, and connects employers to workforce resources that enhance internship experiences.

Program Administration

The Intern Engagement Program is administered by WDC staff in coordination with community partners and informed by feedback from interns, employers, and the Watertown Workforce Advisory Council. Program costs are modest and focused on materials and engagement activities that deliver direct participant benefit.

Community Impact

The Intern Engagement Program strengthens Watertown’s workforce ecosystem by:

• Enhancing intern experiences and satisfaction
• Increasing the likelihood of interns returning post‑graduation
• Supporting employer talent recruitment and retention
• Promoting Watertown as a welcoming community for young professionals