Students at the University of Wisconsin-Stout are gaining hands-on experience with professional sports organizations, including the New York Yankees, PGA Tour affiliates, Minnesota Vikings, and Milwaukee Brewers, according to a March 25 announcement from the university. These internships offer practical learning opportunities that prepare students for careers in their chosen fields.
The importance of these experiences is reflected in UW-Stout’s polytechnic approach to education. The university enrolls students in approximately 1,000 internship and co-op positions each year. According to the official website, about 35% of UW-Stout students accept jobs with their internship or co-op employers after graduation. This focus on career readiness is supported by modern labs and industry-linked spaces designed to enhance practical learning according to the official website.
Carson Leuzinger, a senior dietetics major from Monroe and a member of the Blue Devils men’s basketball team, completed two internships last summer at the Yankees’ development center in Tampa, Florida. “Some things I learned at Stout that helped me down there were having a basic understanding of the macronutrients and micronutrients,” Leuzinger said. He explained how this knowledge allowed him to advise players on nutritional choices during his time working alongside athletes such as Aaron Judge and Carlos Rodón.
Other students have found similar opportunities in golf management through partnerships with companies like Patina Group and Delaware North at events including the PGA Championship and Ryder Cup. Senior Garret Sigl described his logistics role: “All the behind-the-scenes things that you wouldn’t think of, I got to help organize… It was quite interesting just to see how much organized chaos goes on.” Junior Henry Lavin interned at TPC Twin Cities over two summers where he applied classroom lessons directly on-site: “Everything I have been taught I have used during my internships,” Lavin said.
The university has been recognized as Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University for its blend of theory and application according to its official website. As part of the University of Wisconsin System according to its official website, UW-Stout supports student success by providing laptops through its eStout program according to its official website and building partnerships for research and career development according to its official website.
Looking ahead, these internship experiences are expected to continue helping UW-Stout students transition smoothly into their careers while maintaining strong connections between education and industry.
