TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — Years of effort came to fruition on Tuesday as the Sorrell College of Business launched its corporate partnership Tuesday morning.

The program is aimed at building new connections between Troy students and businesses from around the Wiregrass, while strengthening Troy’s existing business ties.

“The goal is to connect area industry with student and faculty talent here in the Sorrel College of business,” said Laura Dove, associate dean of the College of Business, “We work with companies who are interested in hiring students for internships, for jobs, with companies who may have business projects or research needs our faculty could assist with.”

The program already has a multitude of corporate partners on board, including Troy Regional Health, Horn Beverage Company, and Southeastern Freight Lines.

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One company, Sanders Lead Co., said they are looking forward to the opportunity to connect with potential new hires at Troy.

“Its the workforce of the future, we are looking for high performing. career minded employees, and that’s the kind of students that Troy is producing,” said Reid Ward, Director of Human resources at Sanders Lead, “We want to tap into this resource for today and into the future.

According to the Pike County Chamber of Commerce, the program will also help to grow Pike County’s workforce and keep students in the area after graduation.

“If we can get them in the door at their businesses, we hope they will have an outstanding internship opportunity,” said Bethany Grimes, Pike County Chamber of Commerce President, “Which could lead to future employment and permanent residence for these students in Pike County.”

During the event, the Pike County Chamber of Commerce also launched the Troy University Student Chamber Membership, which will provide students with networking opportunities, lunch and learn workshops, and other ways to get involved with local businesses for a $25 annual membership fee.