Are you dreaming of a career in aviation? A summer aviation internship is the perfect way to get hands-on experience and see what it’s really like to work in aerospace.
Many top companies offer exciting programs for high school students.
These programs let you work on real projects and build skills that look great on college applications.
These aviation internships are open to students from 9th to 12th grade. Some focus on engineering, while others cover topics like aircraft design or new flight technologies.
No matter what area interests you, there’s likely a program that fits.
Of course, if you’re really interested in learning more about the aviation industry as a high school student, consider enrolling at a full time STEM oriented aviation high school like Rising Aviation High School. Our students are able to explore the aviation industry on a daily basis.
Getting Started with Aviation Internships for High School Students
While we’ll share a few unique internships below, it’s important to know these aren’t your only options. There are many ways to find internship opportunities in your area.
First, check with your local airports. They might have programs or internships for high school students. Ask about job shadowing too – it’s a great way to get your feet wet.
You can also call companies based at your local airport to see if they have any internship opportunities.
Next, look into local aerospace companies. Many offer summer internships for high schoolers. These are perfect if you’re interested in aerospace engineering.
As you’re going through this process, it helps to have a few pieces of paperwork ready. Consider preparing:
- A resume
- A cover letter
- Check application deadlines
- Ask for recommendation letters
Remember, these internships can really boost your college applications. They show you’re serious about your future in aviation.
You should also be open to different roles. You might find exciting opportunities in engineering, flight operations, or even airport management. Even if they aren’t necessarily what you’re looking for, they can give you a foot in the door and open the way to other opportunities.
Specific Aviation Internships to Consider
We’ve gathered info on a few summer aviation internships that are available to students nationwide. These programs offer hands-on experience and mentorship from industry experts. Check out these top opportunities to kickstart your aviation career.
NASA OSTEM High School Internship Programs
NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) runs paid internships for high school students. You’ll get to work on real space projects alongside NASA scientists and engineers. The program covers various fields like:
- Aerospace engineering
- Computer science
- Earth sciences
- Robotics
You’ll gain valuable skills and maybe even contribute to future space missions. NASA has centers across the U.S., so you might find an opportunity close to home.
To apply, you need to be a U.S. citizen and at least 16 years old. The application process is competitive, so highlight your passion for space and any relevant skills or projects.
MIT Lincoln Laboratory High School Internship Program
The MIT Lincoln Laboratory program offers a unique chance to work on cutting-edge technology. You’ll join a team of researchers and engineers in Lexington, MA.
Key details:
- Open to rising high school seniors
- U.S. citizenship required
- Focus on STEM fields like engineering and computer science
During your internship, you might work on:
- Radar systems
- Cybersecurity
- Artificial intelligence
The program aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. You’ll get hands-on experience and guidance from MIT mentors.
AFRL Scholars Program
The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Scholars Program gives you a taste of military aerospace research. You’ll work on projects that could shape the future of aviation and defense.
Program highlights:
- Open to high school students aged 16 and up
- Placements at various AFRL locations
- Focuses on STEM fields relevant to the Air Force
You might help develop:
- New aircraft designs
- Advanced materials
- Communication systems
The program also offers mentorship and networking opportunities. You’ll learn about potential career paths in the Air Force and aerospace industry. It’s important to note that while this program is available at several locations throughout the US, not all locations accept high school students.
Other Internship Ideas
Finding a good internship opportunity can be challenging, especially if you live in a more rural area. As mentioned above, one of the best places to start is your local airport.
Many people in the aviation community would love to help a young prospective aviator. So reach out to local companies to see if you can come in and interview someone or job shadow them for a day.
Even though it isn’t officially an internship, it can be a fantastic way to learn more about the job and find out if it might be a good fit for you.
