How do large companies make themselves attractive to college students, especially with such high competition for young talent? For Ameren, there is power at meeting prospective employees at the source. This winter, the Fortune 500 Company opened The Ameren Innovation Center at the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana.

Ameren is 8,500 employees strong and is always looking to add qualified, smart talent to their ranks. The Innovation Center at Illinois offers part-time employment opportunities for undergrad and graduate students who want to tackle projects focused on the needs of the utility of the future.

The company tapped Simantel to help develop internal conditioning for the new space. Our mission was to inspire and energize the students through imagery. We filled the rooms with inspiring messages and surprising facts about one of the biggest players in the energy industry.

 

The break room (pictured above) reminds young innovators that their work will benefit Ameren’s many customers. 

 

Bright colors energize the workspaces and reflect Ameren’s brand personality.

 

The Ameren mission statement is showcased prominently in the lounge portion of the space. 

 

The graphics on the external wall of the office show movement, leading students to the entrance. 

 

The panel wall divides workspaces and reminds young leaders how a career at Ameren can include a variety of people and projects.