Gallagher Insurance is redefining summer internships by opening its doors to professional athletes, offering a unique bridge between sports and corporate careers. Traditionally, athletes face a challenging transition when their playing days end, often lacking the workplace experience needed to thrive in business. Gallagher’s Partnership Intern Program addresses this gap, providing structured, hands-on exposure to insurance brokerage, sales, and corporate operations.
Participants gain mentorship, professional skill development, and real-world business experience, all while balancing the demands of their athletic schedules. By tapping into athletes’ discipline, leadership, and teamwork, Gallagher not only prepares them for life beyond sports but also enriches its corporate culture with high-performing, motivated individuals ready to excel both on and off the field.
Bridging the Gap Between Sports and Business
Last year, Gallagher expanded its internship program to include professional athletes, providing a structured pathway to life after sports. The company discovered that athletes often excel off the field as much as on it.
“They understand hard work and teamwork, and how to lead a team,” said Chris Mead, Gallagher’s chief marketing officer. “Those are skills that translate perfectly into business.”
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NWSL Athletes Join the Program
In 2025, Gallagher opened its internship program to eight members of the National Women’s Soccer League’s Chicago Stars. Players like Leilanni Nesbeth and Chardonnay Curran, both midfielders, eagerly accepted the opportunity for a paid internship.
“It’s great to get our foot in the door,” Nesbeth said. Curran added, “I’ve never worked outside of soccer. This is my first experience in a corporate setting.”
Program Structure and Goals
Gallagher’s Partnership Intern Program, launched in 2024, initially piloted with four NFL Atlanta Falcons players. The six-week program offers hands-on business experience, professional skill development, and mentorship while exposing interns to insurance brokerage, sales, and corporate culture.
The program is tailored to accommodate athletes’ demanding schedules, allowing them to gain meaningful experience without compromising their sports commitments.
Preparing Athletes for Life After Sports
Pro sports careers can be short, unpredictable, and financially variable. For example, the average NWSL salary is around $125,000 per season. Gallagher’s internship program aims to equip athletes with practical skills and industry knowledge that can translate into successful post-sports careers.
Nesbeth reflected on her learning experience: “We went in knowing nothing about insurance, and now I could probably bore your head off about RPS,” referencing risk placement services. Curran said the internship changed her perception: “Everything I thought about insurance was the exact opposite.”
Success Stories and Career Transitions
Some athlete interns have gone on to join Gallagher as full-time employees after retiring from sports. In Europe, the company employs a professional rugby player who became one of its top salespeople.
“There’s a moment when athletes realize that celebrating a win on the field is no different than celebrating a win for a customer,” Mead explained.
Why Gallagher Invests in Athlete Interns
Athletes bring discipline, resilience, and leadership to the workplace. Their competitive mindset and ability to handle pressure make them uniquely suited for careers in business. Gallagher’s program not only benefits the athletes but also enriches the company culture with high-performing, motivated individuals.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Opportunities
Gallagher plans to continue growing its internship program, aiming to support athletes from multiple sports leagues. By combining professional mentorship, corporate experience, and flexible scheduling, the company ensures that athletes have the tools to succeed in business once their sports careers end.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gallagher’s Partnership Intern Program?
Gallagher’s Partnership Intern Program is a summer internship initiative designed for professional athletes, providing hands-on experience in insurance brokerage, sales, and corporate operations. It helps athletes prepare for careers beyond sports while gaining mentorship and professional development.
Who is eligible for the program?
The program is open to professional athletes from various sports leagues, including the NFL and NWSL. Participants must demonstrate strong teamwork, leadership, and a commitment to learning new skills in a corporate setting.
How long does the internship last?
The internship typically runs for six weeks during the summer, allowing athletes to gain meaningful experience without disrupting their sports schedules.
What kind of work do interns do?
Interns participate in real business projects, learn about insurance brokerage and sales, develop professional skills, and receive mentorship from experienced Gallagher employees.
Does the program accommodate athletes’ schedules?
Yes, Gallagher tailors the internship to accommodate training and game schedules, ensuring athletes can participate fully without compromising their sports commitments.
Is the internship paid?
Yes, participants receive a paid internship, giving them both professional experience and financial support while exploring a career outside of sports.
Can athlete interns get hired full-time?
Some interns have been offered full-time positions at Gallagher after completing the program, allowing them to transition smoothly into corporate careers once their sports careers end.
Conclusion
Gallagher’s summer internship program is a pioneering initiative that bridges the gap between professional sports and corporate careers. By offering hands-on business experience, mentorship, and skill development, the program equips athletes with the tools they need to succeed beyond the field. It also demonstrates how companies can leverage the discipline, leadership, and teamwork inherent in athletes to strengthen their workforce.