Principal Immersion Program

The Principal Immersion Program is a summer work experience at Principal Financial Group for students in Iowa Jobs for America's Graduates (iJAG). iJAG is a semester-long elective class offered at participating Iowa schools. For several years, Principal ran a paid six-week internship for iJAG students at its world headquarters in downtown Des Moines. That internship included lodging and caregiving support for students who traveled to take part. Starting in 2024, Principal shortened the format to a three-week immersion experience so it could host more students over the summer. Principal runs the immersion program for several cohorts of students each summer. More than 40 iJAG students and alumni have joined the immersion program since it launched in 2024. Seven participants have later been hired full-time at Principal. Principal also offers one-year apprentice positions to iJAG graduates.

Open only to iJAG students and alumni, so students must take part in iJAG to qualify. No public application page or deadline is posted. Students apply through the iJAG program and should ask their iJAG teacher how to apply.