The French-American Chamber of Commerce has helped prepare thousands of international young professionals and students for a future in the global economy. Each year, our International Career Development Programs (ICDP) department sponsors highly skilled young people, ages 18 to 35, for J-1 visas and provides trainee placement opportunities with U.S. and French FACC members.
| "Cartier benefits in many ways from the gifted people who participate in the training programs - and FACC makes everything so simple. They are gracious and efficient. Their turn-around time for visas is exceptionally fast. Thanks to the Chamber, the program has worked out great for us." |
Helen O'Shaughnessy
Richemont North America (Cartier)
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We first opened our doors to exchange trainees in 1971 under the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act, when we brought Young French Professionals to train at U.S.-based companies. Since then, we have developed a range of exciting options for professional and student exchange in partnership with the French Embassy Cultural Services in Washington, and through our French partners: Ubifrance and l'Office des Migrations Internationales in Paris. In addition to these programs, we provide internships to French Volunteers for International Experience (VIEs) – corporate internships for eligible European citizens. Our U.S.-based sponsored training program has benefited more than 6,000 young French men and women since 1983. Similarly, we facilitate internship opportunities for Americans in France in industries that include banking, media, journalism and architecture.
| "Quick... that's the best way to describe the staff at FACC. They process visas right away and they find solutions to any request we make. The students that work here bring us fresh new ideas and are always eager to learn." |
Kareen Cavalerie
Arcelor International America |
ICDP is the ideal mechanism for American and French companies to make their workplaces more diverse and international in scope. ICDP is only available to FACC members and, as a result, participants enjoy supportive, individually tailored service. The ICDP overseas experience benefits all participants. Trainees gain practical experience, knowledge, linguistic competency, and cross-cultural skills critical to leadership in today's international business community. FACC members have the opportunity to add bright professional trainees to their business operations and to strengthen their connections to overseas markets.
For both members and trainees, IDCP is an invaluable tool for remaining relevant in today's increasingly interdependent economy. For additional information please view ICDP Presentation.
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Support strong economic relations between France and the United States
"I would really encourage people to participate in the internship program, and to turn to the FACC for their excellent assistance. They're very reassuring. They make you feel like you're not alone in this international learning experience. I feel very lucky."