Extreme Blue

Extreme Blue

Extreme Blue is a premier internship program run by IBM, designed to provide top-tier students with the opportunity to work on high-impact projects that address real-world business challenges. The program is known for its focus on innovation, collaboration, and the development of leadership skills among participants.

History

The Extreme Blue program was launched in 1999 by IBM as a way to attract and nurture top talent from universities around the world. The program was initially piloted in the United States and has since expanded to include locations in Europe, Asia, and other regions. Over the years, Extreme Blue has become a key component of IBM's talent acquisition and development strategy.

Program Structure

Extreme Blue is structured as a 12-week summer internship program. Participants, known as "Extreme Blue interns," are typically undergraduate or graduate students pursuing degrees in fields such as computer science, engineering, business, and design.

Team Composition

Interns are grouped into small, cross-functional teams, each consisting of:

• A technical lead, responsible for the technical direction and implementation of the project.
• A business lead, who focuses on the market analysis, business strategy, and client engagement aspects.
• Additional team members with expertise in areas such as design, user experience, and software development.

Project Focus

Each team is assigned a project that addresses a specific business challenge or opportunity. Projects are selected based on their potential impact on IBM's business and their alignment with strategic priorities. Teams work closely with IBM mentors and subject matter experts to develop innovative solutions.

Deliverables

At the end of the program, teams present their projects to IBM executives, clients, and other stakeholders. Deliverables typically include a working prototype, a business plan, and a presentation that outlines the project's value proposition and potential impact.

Impact and Outcomes

Extreme Blue has been instrumental in driving innovation within IBM. Many projects developed through the program have been commercialized or integrated into IBM's product offerings. Additionally, the program serves as a pipeline for recruiting top talent, with many interns receiving full-time job offers from IBM upon graduation.

Notable Alumni

Extreme Blue has produced a number of notable alumni who have gone on to have successful careers in technology and business. Alumni often credit the program with providing them with valuable skills and experiences that have contributed to their professional growth.

Also see

• IBM
• Internship
• Innovation
• Leadership development
• Business strategy