Dr. Dobbins is the founder and owner of two companies, Caster Concepts and Conceptual Innovations. He has been running his own internship program for the past decade. He believes interns bring curiosity, technological knowledge, and dedication to the company, challenging the status quo and sparking fresh ideas. He mentioned that while there isn’t a specific example, the general impact is through the collision of different perspectives, which helps to evolve ideas and foster creativity.
Dr. Dobbins’s company has spent between $350,000 and $500,000 on internships over the last decade. Despite the cost, the program has been a success, with interns gaining valuable experiences, often going on to further their education in engineering and returning to contribute. The approach reflects a commitment to “conscious capitalism” by reinvesting profits into the community rather than just seeking personal gain.
Dr. Dobbins feels that the hardest part of the internship program isn’t the program itself but the time commitment from mentors, parents, and other employees who make the program work. The company can support the program, but the hard work comes from others involved.
He believes the focus should be on the mission and belief in the value of internships rather than just the money. Convincing companies to support the mission is key, and sponsorships like those from FIRST are valuable. Dr. Dobbins emphasizes commitment to teaching and giving back to the younger generations.
He encourages others to think about the mission behind the internship program. While it might not always be easy, finding early adopters who are open to the idea can help drive the initiative forward. He also suggests that company owners focus on the cultural benefits of bringing fresh perspectives and new ideas into the organization, which can ultimately lead to innovation and growth. The investment in the program should be viewed as an investment in future talent, and even if the process isn’t always smooth, the long-term rewards—such as developing future talent, fostering a positive company culture, and contributing to the community—are invaluable.
Dr. Dobbins mentions that while some company owners may hesitate due to the perceived cost, it’s crucial to shift the mindset from focusing on the money to focusing on the impact an internship program can have. Owners should remember that building relationships with the next generation can strengthen the industry as a whole.