Hormel Foods Welcomes 2026 Class of Interns for a Transformative Summer Experience

Each year, the Hormel Foods summer internship program offers students a clear view into career opportunities within the Fortune 500 global branded food company. The program provides students from over two dozen colleges and universities with a three-month hands-on business experience across functional groups including sales, accounting, food safety & quality, engineering and more.

“We’re excited to welcome this year’s interns to Hormel Foods and to our communities across the country,” said Leah Cochran, manager of talent acquisition. “Each student will have the opportunity to take part in meaningful projects and gain valuable skills while contributing to the innovative work that drives our purpose forward.”

These paid, full-time internships immerse students in real business scenarios across all functional groups of the company providing hands-on experience and the opportunity to work with and learn from all levels of Hormel Foods leadership. The internship program is an important talent pipeline as more than 70% of Hormel Foods summer interns become full-time team members at the company.

Hormel Foods has consistently been recognized for hosting one of the best internship programs in the nation by Vault, a leader in career research, exploration and discovery for professionals and students. In 2025, the company’s internship program was honored with awards in the categories of the country’s Best Internships for Consumer and Industrial Products; Engineering; as well as Sales, Marketing and Communications.

“Our interns play an important role in strengthening our culture of innovation and collaboration. Each year we look forward to the talent, curiosity, and fresh perspectives contributed by the students,” said Cochran. “We’re proud to provide an environment where emerging talent can thrive and contribute to meaningful work.”