Garver supports purposefully building pipeline for women in STEM through WFA internship program sponsorship

Garver continues to invest in the AEC industry, communities, and individuals with sponsorship of the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas (WFA) Tjuana Byrd Summer Internship Program, a 10-week, paid summer internship opportunity for women of color who are enrolled in Arkansas colleges and pursuing degrees in STEM, Finance, or other related majors.

The internship program, named for the WFA’s first Black president, is offered in partnership with several Arkansas companies, and includes housing for participants, weekly networking events, and professional development workshops. Its goal is to provide women of color in the state of Arkansas more access to and representation in these professional fields.

The program’s mission resonates with Garver Chief Communications Officer Laura Nick. “I’m positive that empowering and supporting this program’s participants will create positive impacts in our state and beyond,” she said. “And I’m proud that Garver is invested in this community and building a pipeline for young women in STEM to join our industry.”

As a sponsor and supporter, Garver also hosted intern Oluwatoyin Elizabeth Abati, a student at the University of Arkansas who is pursuing a master’s degree in Agricultural Communication.

“Elizabeth has done an amazing job and been a joy to work with,” said Nick. “We congratulate her on graduating from the internship program and will be cheering her on as she continues with her master’s degree.”

In championing Abati and the overall internship program, Garver continues the mission to support people and purposeful growth in the industry, and continues a strong relationship with the WFA. Garver has supported the WFA for the past eight years through its corporate giving program GarverGives, which provides a platform for partnership with local organizations to advance STEM education, provide grant funding, and promote employee giving and volunteerism.

To learn more about GarverGives, visit our About page.