The Civic Fellows Program is a prestigious summer internship opportunity for Chicago-area graduate students to develop leadership skills, create a civic network, and have a lasting, positive impact on Chicago. Within the context of a structures learning environment, Civic Fellows gain first-hand leadership and networking experience through:

  • Completing a high-impact project for the City of Chicago, working side-by-side with CCA consultants and senior executives in Chicago government.
  • Developing an understanding of key consulting skills as well as public sector policies, operations, and challenges.
  • Attending regular receptions with high-level executives (e.g., Commercial Club, CCA Board of Directors, etc.)
  • Candidates should be registered in a graduate degree program in business, public policy, public affairs, not-for-profit management, or other related degree.

Applicants should possess:

  • At least two years of previous work experience, preferably at a large management consulting firm
  • Significant analytic, relationship management, research, and communication skills
  • Ability to work with a variety of people in a complex political environment
  • Track record of success in large organizations and ability to get things done in multiple settings
  • Desire to serve the City of Chicago and its government agencies

Civic Fellows commit a minimum of 11 weeks from June through August. Potential exists for project-based work throughout the school year in exchange for class credit. Compensation for the summer program is $5,000 plus school matching funds.

To Apply
For consideration, please send the following to consultantsearch@ccachicago.org:

  • Resume and cover letter
  • Three references (references will not be contacted without first talking to the candidate)
  • One page response to the following: If you had the opportunity to assist the City of Chicago on a critical issue, which issue would you choose and why? What do you think are the critical components to solving this problem?

    • Thank you in advance for your interest in joining the Civic Fellows Program at CCA.

    (Note: References will not be contacted without first talking with the candidate.)

"What I enjoyed most as an intern at CCA was having my talents utilized to the fullest, and always being considered an integral part of the team. The project managers took the time to discuss my goals and objectives, and they assigned tasks that allowed me to develop my skills and work in the areas of greatest interest to me."
––CCA Intern
"I chose to intern at CCA because I share and admire the organization’s commitment to the public sector and the Chicago community."
––CCA Intern