August Career Partner Highlight:
Cars Commerce
The Emerge Summer Career & Leadership Program may be over for this year – but we’re finishing out our series of spotlights on our incredible Emerge Career Partners, the companies and organizations that make our Emerge internships possible. For each, we’ve given you a special look at what called them to partner with us, shared stories of their Scholar interns – and maybe inspired you and your company to partner too!
Our August Emerge Career Partner Highlight of the Month is Cars Commerce, the expanded platform behind Cars.com that allows a simplified experience of buying and selling cars. With their roots and current headquarters based firmly in Chicago, Cars Commerce has partnered with Chicago Scholars to host several Emerge interns over the years. Cars Commerce is also committed to community engagement, making them a fantastic partner in our work. We talked with the communications team at Cars Commerce about the company’s commitment to our Scholars – read on for their responses!
Firstly, why did you choose to partner with Chicago Scholars?
“We have employees all over North America, but we launched our headquarters here in Chicago 25 years ago. We are deeply committed to our community and our hometown city. We’re thrilled to partner with Chicago Scholars in their mission to nurture the next generation of diverse leaders from our own backyard. This collaboration not only supports a vital cause but also strengthens our talent pipeline, paving the way for future opportunities within Cars Commerce.”
To continue, why did Cars Commerce go beyond general sponsorship of Chicago Scholars to also host interns as part of the Emerge program?
“Instead of merely sponsoring Chicago Scholars through a general sponsorship, we hosted 6 Emerge interns this year to offer more direct, hands-on support and development for emerging professionals. By integrating these interns into our team, we provide them with practical experience, mentorship, and potential career pathways. In return, we gain fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, benefiting from their contributions and the dynamic impact they bring.”
What is Cars Commerce looking to accomplish through your internship program?
“Our goal is to offer the next generation of professionals valuable real-world experience through engaging projects, hands-on training, and mentorship, helping them stand out in a saturated job market.”
What qualities does Cars Commerce look for in potential Emerge interns?
“We seek individuals who are eager to learn, highly adaptable, and passionately curious about their field. These traits help them excel in our fast-paced industry and fully leverage their internship experience.”
Finally, what are your hopes for the young adults of Chicago?
“Being based in Chicago, we are fully committed to our community. We aim to provide individuals with the skills and experiences needed to excel both personally and professionally, empowering them to eventually contribute back to the community.”