News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 7, 2003

Contact: Michael Orenstein (202) 606-2402

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Elite Presidential Management Intern Program Returns to Nation's Capital; Move Restores Luster to Quarter-Century Old Program

Washington, D.C. -- Culminating a six-month review, Kay Coles James, Director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, has ordered the first of several changes to the Presidential Management Intern Program -- the nation's premier intern program -- returning the headquarters of the program to Washington, D.C., its original home.

The decision is one of several substantive changes to the program following several months of study and interviews with PMI stakeholders and senior government officials. In a letter mailed this month, James notified nearly 7,000 current and former PMI interns, as well as various stakeholder groups, of the program's return to Washington and of a 30-day recruitment effort to obtain a new PMI Director and key staff. James also solicited their comments and suggestions.

These changes will make the program more contemporary and attractive to outstanding college graduates. The return also takes advantage of Washington's unique role in world events.

"As the PMI Program prepares some of our nation's top graduates for leadership positions in the federal government, it is only logical that the headquarters of this prestigious program has its home in Washington, where the eyes of the world are looking for direction and leadership during these challenging times," said James. "Given this change of venue, it is likely we will see a heightened interest in the program."

Administered since 1995 from OPM's Philadelphia Service Center, the program is approaching its 25th birthday.

The venue change for the federal government's elite intern program will help attract graduates of master's programs in public administration. Holders of master's degrees in other academic disciplines may apply to the program, however, they must demonstrate a commitment to public administration. Individuals with degrees in computer technology, health care and foreign language, for example, would be highly prized by the new Department of Homeland Security.

The Presidential Management Intern Program has groomed approximately 6,000 public-service oriented men and women for key positions throughout government, including the Departments of Defense, Agriculture and Health and Human Services. This year, 750 PMI interns are assigned to key operations within agencies, where they are gaining vital experience in government operations, while contributing their talents and youthful energies.

Acceptance into the PMI Program begins with the prospective intern submitting an application that has been signed by the Dean, Department Chair, or program head of the applicant's school of study. In January and February each year, applicants participate in a day-long assessment where their oral and written skills are tested. Successful applicants are notified in March, and the application process culminates with their names being placed in an intern pool from which agencies select individuals.

Upon selection, PMI interns begin a two-year apprenticeship at a "home" agency. To gain maximum exposure to the business of government, interns are encouraged to accept temporary assignments within the home agency or other federal departments. Upon successful completion of the two-year program, interns are converted to the career civil service.

Currently, PMI interns begin their assignments at the entry-level GS-9 pay grade; upon conversion, they are promoted to GS-12. Under consideration by James is a proposal to increase the entry-level pay grade to a level that is more appropriate to the potential of the intern.

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OPM oversees the federal work force and provides the American public with up-to-date employment information. OPM also supports U.S. agencies with personnel services and policy leadership including staffing tools, guidance on labor-management relations and programs to improve work force performance.

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