The Michigan Suburbs Alliance is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented individual to serve as an Information Technology Intern. The individual should possess a strong desire to learn about urban issues and an eagerness to offer thoughtful suggestions and critical analysis. The Information Technology Intern works directly with Ferndale’s City Manager and the East Dearborn Downtown Development Authority’s Executive Director. Combining research, data management and writing responsibilities, this position is an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in economic development and information technology. The ideal candidate is well-organized, proactive and committed to regional issues and sustainable development. She or he should be able to balance administrative and clerical responsibilities with independent project management. Assignments may include developing a request for proposals to update the information technology master plan, crafting policies and procedures, and researching and building a comprehensive database. Qualifications • Ability to balance multiple assignments and meet deadlines • Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Word • Positive attitude • Independence tempered by the ability to follow direction and abide by a work plan • Ability to interact professionally with staff and associates • Strong organizational skills evidencing attention to detail • An excellent sense of humor (or at least the potential for one to develop) Benefits to the Student • Practical, real-world experience that will help you transition into a successful career in either the public or private sector • Opportunities to network with a wide variety of key stakeholders in the region • Learn about regionalism, redevelopment and public policy and how they relate to southeast Michigan and inner-ring suburbs • Learn to create and implement information technology solutions to key municipal challenges • Fun and flexible work environment!

The Michigan Suburbs Alliance, a nonprofit registered in the State of Michigan, was established by a group of mayors and city managers from Wayne, Oakland and Macomb Counties. These leaders gathered in April 2002 and agreed to explore how they could work together to educate themselves and the public about the root causes of problems facing older, established suburbs. In June 2002, representatives from fourteen metro Detroit suburban cities unanimously agreed to form the Michigan Suburbs Alliance, which has since grown to encompass twenty-five member cities with nearly 1,000,000 residents. The Michigan Suburbs Alliance unites and strengthens metropolitan Detroit’s mature suburbs by elevating regional cooperation, reforming public policies and innovating redevelopment strategies. Pursuing a future where communities share economic, environmental and social success, the Michigan Suburbs Alliance envisions metropolitan centers that preserve the unique character of individual communities while striving toward a unified and equitable region where the citizens are empowered as an effective regional force.

300 East Nine Mile Road 48226