IT AI & Automation Intern

About the Role:

IT has a track record of success with interns across their various teams, all who have the ability to directly contribute to the success of the department. Interns apply knowledge gained in the classroom to develop relevant professional experience while creating meaningful relationships. We look for highly motivated individuals who are proactive, eager to learn and ready to contribute.

The IT AI & Automation intern will work across multiple IT teams that support, operate and enhance Baird's technology environment. This intern will gain exposure to a variety of technology functions, identify opportunities to improve associate experiences and business processes and help design, test and implement appropriately scoped automation and AI-enabled solutions.

Working alongside experienced technology professionals and business partners, the intern will participate in projects focused on improving efficiency, knowledge sharing, service delivery and technology experiences. The intern will receive mentorship, coaching and technical guidance while gradually increasing ownership and complexity of assigned work. Outcomes may include research and recommendations, AI assistants, workflow automations, knowledge solutions, working prototypes or production-ready capabilities depending on business need and operational risk.

This is a hybrid internship, working three days per week in our downtown Milwaukee, WI office and two days remote. The intern must be able to work full time during the summer, 37.5-40 hours per week, and work part time during the school semesters, 15-20 hours per week. We are seeking a local student who can start in June 2027.

The Impact You'll Make

• Learn how various IT teams support associates and business operations through rotations, job shadowing, mentorship and project-based work

• Partner with associates to identify opportunities where AI or automation can improve efficiency, enhance the associate experience or simplify complex business and technology processes

• Build, test and evaluate AI-enabled solutions and automations using approved technologies and tools

• Explore practical applications of emerging AI capabilities for knowledge discovery, information organization, communication, service delivery, workflow improvement and operational effectiveness

• Assist project and operational initiatives while learning the importance of data protection, access controls, testing, change management, governance and service reliability

• Develop documentation, prompt libraries, testing evidence, recommendations and support materials that enable teams to sustain and expand solutions

• Gather feedback from users and stakeholders, measure outcomes and recommend improvements

• Communicate progress, findings and recommendations to associates, managers and technology leaders through presentations, demonstrations and written communications

• Experience Baird's collaborative culture that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives through teamwork and a strong sense of partnership by shadowing and mentorship from experienced team members and leaders

What You'll Bring to Baird

• Pursuing an associate's or bachelor's degree in information technology, information systems, management information systems, computer science, software engineering, artificial intelligence, machine learning or related degree

• Anticipated graduation date of May 2028 or later

• Curiosity about technology, automation and practical applications of AI, including how emerging tools can improve business processes, associate experiences and technology services

• Introductory experience with scripting, programming, low-code tools, automation platforms or AI technologies through coursework, personal projects or independent learning

• Experience with technologies such as Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT, Claude, Copilot Studio, Power Automate, Python, PowerShell or similar tools is a plus

• Proven critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to evaluate ideas, challenge assumptions and identify meaningful solutions

• Organizational excellence, with the capacity to manage multiple priorities, demonstrate strong attention to detail and ensure high-quality and on-time delivery

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to connect clearly and professionally with clients and associates and communicate technical information to both technical and non-technical personnel

• High levels of initiative, motivation, proactivity and curiosity, with a strong commitment to learn unfamiliar technologies, work through ambiguity and contribute effectively

• Interest in areas such as service management, knowledge management, automation, associate experience, IT operations, infrastructure or technology platforms is beneficial but not required

About Our Intern Program

Jumpstart your career with Baird's high-impact summer intern program! You'll gain real-world experience, connect with inspiring leaders and grow through hands-on projects, mentorship and dynamic events. From our Intern Welcome and Baird Gives Back Day to firmwide networking and professional development, you'll be part of a vibrant, collaborative culture that values your voice and fuels your future.

Baird is not currently hiring individuals for this position who now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status.

Baird is committed to diversity and provides employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, military service, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other status protected by law.