Many large companies recruit new grads for training programs. Ford, GE and Chevron offer new graduate leadership development programs.
Ford, GE and Chevron are a few of the Fortune 500 companies that offer new grad entry-level training programs. Their programs demonstrate the type of offerings that exist for new grads eager to enter the workforce.
FORD GRADUATE TRAINING PROGRAM
"You'll work with your mentor to plan out a personal program of developmental assignments that reflect your interests and the company's needs. You'll receive support, coaching and mentoring from your program mentor as well as you immediate supervisors. You'll explore different aspects of your professional field, so you can make informed choices about your career growth. You'll network with colleagues in the program to develop social and business relationships."
Program Structure
The program structure varies between business units and subject areas but generally consists of an orientation program and then (3-5) rotations in various business units. Your program is planned with an Advisor who will mentor you throughout the program. You are also matched with an Executive Sponsor who will guide your career development for the long term (first 7 years of employment with Ford). For each rotation, you are assigned an Assignment Supervisor who provides day-to-day guidance, feedback and formal evaluations.
Program Length
Programs ranges from 2-4 years.
Areas of Focus
Marketing, Sales & Service; Information Technology; Finance; Product Development; Manufacturing; Purchasing; Ford Land; Ford Credit; Environmental & Safety; Human Resources
Entrance Requirements
You need to be in the top 20-25% of your class and/or a GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 (some divisions require a minimum of a 3.5 GPA) and have a relevant bachelor's degree or an MBA with a relevant bachelor's degree. Competitive programs also prefer publish papers, community service and so on.
Application Procedure
Information can be found in the "How We Hire" section of the website. Job postings are displayed when you choose the career area of interest. Online applications are then accepted for the specific postings.
More information on the Ford Graduate Training Program
GE ENTRY-LEVEL LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS
"These programs, typically two years in length, are designed to give tremendous breadth of experience and hands-on training. Considered the talent pipeline for GE's different functional areas, these programs are rotational in nature and combine real work experience with specialized coursework or classroom training. Offered at the majority of GE's businesses, these programs hire seasonally, recruiting predominately in the fall for full-time and intern positions."
Program Structure
You are hired to a business unit and the program structure varies with each business unit/subject area but generally includes job assignments, formal classroom studies and rotations through different departments within the business unit.
Program Length
Most programs are 2 years in length (4, 6 month rotations on average). The program requires a commitment of 50 hours a week on the job and another 5-8 hours of coursework.
Areas of Focus
Entry-Level Leadership Development Programs in:
Engineering; Finance; Information Management; Operations; Sales & Marketing
Entrance Requirements
Requirements vary with program but generally: related undergraduate degree, academic excellence (minimum GPA 3.0/4.0), geographic flexibility, less than 1-2 years full-time external work experience, prefer internship or co-op experience.
Application Procedure
There is an online application process when you click on "Careers at GE". You choose the business unit, program and location that match your interests and needs. Postings will be displayed if they are accepting applications.
More information on the GE Entry-Level Leadership Programs
CHEVRON'S GLOBAL SUPPLY & TRADING MBA DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
"The GSTMBA is seeking recent MBA graduates who have a passion for business and thrive in a high performance culture. We're looking for people who aspire to become senior-level managers, have proven leadership skills, strong communication abilities and a desire to be challenged. You must be someone who embraces responsibility, is comfortable with innovation and can leverage technology."
Program Structure
4 rotational assignments first in Houston, Texas and then 3 other locations including: San Ramon, California; Singapore; London England and Cape Town, South Africa.
A senior manager is assigned as your mentor.
Program Length
2 years.
Areas of Focus
Crude Supply & Trading; Products Supply & Trading; Fuel and Marine Marketing; Global Aviation; Asphalt Supply Optimization Group;
Corporate Headquarters Staff Groups
Entrance Requirements
A strong leadership potential; 3-6 years' work experience; a strong desire to work in a commercial trading organization; solid academic experience; an analytical mind; flexibility in learning and exploring a variety of business areas and geographical locations.
Application Procedure
Recruiting for full-time positions occurs during the fall MBA recruiting cycle (September through December). If you wish to apply to the program, send a cover letter and resume to mbagst@chevron.com.
More information on Chevon's GSTMBA Program
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