Sentry opens IT co-op in Stevens Point

Stevens Point, WI – Sentry Insurance will open a new Information Technology (IT) Co-op program for University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point students within walking distance of campus. The cutting-edge program will provide opportunities for UW-Stevens Point students to get real-work experience while pursuing their degree. Co-op employees will work as part of Sentry’s Application Development team in IT, assisting with Java or .Net applications.

“We’re taking a very successful program in place in Madison and copying it here in Stevens Point,” said Jim Stitzlein, Sentry Insurance Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer. “Students will work alongside our IT staff, giving them a chance to develop and hone their IT skills.”

Student employees will develop and maintain new websites, services and applications. They will work between 12 and 19 hours per week during the school year, and up to 40 hours per week during summer months. Students will receive competitive compensation, great amenities, and the potential for full-time employment upon graduation.

“That’s what this is really about,” said Stitzlein. “It provides these students a chance to work on real projects, gain valuable experience, and become great applicants for jobs at Sentry when they graduate.”

The program is expected to be operational by summer 2016 with eight students. The long-term goal is to provide jobs for approximately 25 students. Sentry is renovating a building at 1105 Main Street in downtown Stevens Point.

For more information, please contact news@sentry.com.