ILR High Road New York
Department of Design and Construction (DDC) 
Office of Diversity and Industry Relations (ODIR)

ILR High Road New York is a statewide program that aims to teach ILR students practical methods for civic engagement and leadership through economic justice, evidence-based policy, and strategic development that creates opportunity for community members to share in prosperity.  The Summer 2025 New York City (NYC) High Road Fellowship Program will run from June 2^nd to August 1^st, 2025. Students intern in person with various NYC partner organizations and will participate in weekly cohort workshops focused on critical reflection and peer-to-peer collaboration and networking and learning opportunities with guest speakers will be offered at ILR's NYC office on Lexington Avenue. All interns will be paid and need-based subsidized housing will be available. 

As the City's primary capital construction project manager, the Department of Design and Construction (DDC) builds many of the civic facilities New Yorkers use every day. We provide communities with new or renovated structures such as firehouses, libraries, police precincts, courthouses, senior centers and more. To successfully manage our portfolio, we collaborate with other City agencies, as well as with emerging and world-renowned architects and consultants.  In addition, NYC DDC delivers roadway, sewer, and water main construction projects in all five boroughs. We provide sidewalks, street reconstruction, water mains, sewers, and pedestrian ramps—quality infrastructure that is essential for a healthy, resilient city.

Through the Office of Diversity and Industry Relations (ODIR), DDC develops, implements, and monitors policies and procedures to promote compliance with local law and facilitate economic development. ​

The Workforce Development & Community Hiring Unit (WDCH) manages the Community Hiring requirements and related workforce development initiatives​.

​At DDC we will do our part to ensure All New Yorkers can have access to high quality jobs and careers, and that employers are invested in hiring and training a diversity of talented New Yorkers ​

The intern will work within the Workforce Development & Community Hiring Unit (WDCH) which manages the Community Hiring requirements and related workforce development initiatives​.

What is Community Hiring?

Authorized by State legislation, Community Hiring allows City agencies to include workforce goals in their procurement contracts for vendors to provide employment and apprenticeship opportunities to low-income individuals and those who live in low-income communities.   

The program’s goal is to leverage the City’s purchasing power to drive economic mobility by connecting City vendors with a pipeline of talent and creating pathways to careers for our community.  

  Since this legislation is new – Some tasks that may be assigned through this internship may include but not limited to:

• Researching the NYC construction labor market

• Review NYC Project Labor Agreements

• Coordinate with partners to align resources and timing of opportunities. 

• Develop documents, PowerPoints, Conduct research.

• Assist in developing internal documents.

• Participate in conference calls, meetings etc...