12 Internships for Aerospace Engineering Majors
Securing an internship is a pivotal step for college students aiming to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application. Internships not only bolster resumes but also enhance employability by providing hands-on experience, fostering professional networks, and offering insights into industry operations. For aerospace engineering majors, internships are especially valuable, granting exposure to cutting-edge technologies and projects that define the field.
Recognizing the importance of practical experience, we've curated a list of 12 internships for aerospace engineering students! This selection encompasses opportunities from renowned organizations, offering both virtual and on-site experiences.
1. NASA Pathways Intern Employment Program
Location: Virtual or various NASA centers across the U.S.
Dates: Typically aligns with academic semesters
Application Deadline: Varies; check specific postings
Eligibility: U.S. citizens enrolled or accepted for enrollment in accredited institutions; minimum GPA of 2.9
Cost/Stipend: Paid under the General Schedule (GS) pay scale
The NASA Pathways Internship Program offers students a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on projects that contribute to NASA's mission of space exploration and aeronautics research. Through the program, students can engage in unique practical projects that contribute to NASA's missions in space exploration and aeronautics research. Working with seasoned professionals, interns acquire hands-on experience in a variety of fields, such as science, technology, and engineering.
2. The Aerospace Corporation Internship Program
Location: El Segundo, CA; additional opportunities may be available in other locations
Dates: Typically 10–12 weeks during summer
Application Deadline: Varies by position; applications for summer internships are usually accepted in the preceding fall
Eligibility: Students enrolled in an accredited institution, pursuing a degree in aerospace engineering or related fields
Cost/Stipend: Paid based on academic level and experience
The Aerospace Corporation offers internships that allow students to work with leading scientists and engineers on national security and space exploration projects. Interns gain practical experience working in domains such as satellite systems, space mission planning, and cutting-edge technologies in a collaborative environment. The program provides mentorship, professional development training, and networking opportunities.
Location: Multiple locations including Hawthorne, CA; McGregor, TX; and Cape Canaveral, FL
Dates: Spring (January – April), Summer (May – August), Fall (September – December)
Application Deadline: Varies by term; typically several months in advance
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents; enrolled in a four-year university
Cost/Stipend: Paid positions
SpaceX offers internships that allow students to work on cutting-edge space technology projects. To obtain practical experience in a fast-paced setting, interns are essential to teams building spacecraft, rockets, and other aerospace equipment. The program enables collaboration on projects that shape the future of space exploration with some of the most talented engineers in the industry.
4. Lockheed Martin Engineering Internships
Location: Various U.S. locations; some positions may offer remote or hybrid options.
Dates: Typically aligns with academic semesters
Application Deadline: Varies; check specific postings
Eligibility: Students pursuing degrees in engineering or related fields
Cost/Stipend: $23–$40 per hour, depending on role, location, and academic level.
Lockheed Martin offers internships that provide students with comprehensive work experiences in various disciplines, including aerospace engineering. To gain practical experience and develop the skills essential for a successful career in the aerospace industry, interns are integrated into teams engaged in real-world projects. The curriculum strongly emphasizes professional growth, mentoring, and the chance to work on initiatives that affect technology innovation and national security.
Location: Various U.S. locations
Dates: Typically 10-12 weeks during summer
Application Deadline: Varies by position; applications for summer internships are usually accepted starting in the preceding fall
Eligibility: Students enrolled in an accredited college or university, pursuing a relevant degree
Cost/Stipend: Paid positions
Boeing's internship program offers students the chance to work on innovative projects in engineering and IT. Interns work on real-world projects contributing to Boeing's mission in commercial aviation, defense, and space exploration.
This includes participating in product development, process improvement, and strategic initiatives. The program is intended to offer networking opportunities, professional development, and practical experience.
6. Northrop Grumman Intern Program
Location: Various U.S. locations
Dates: Typically 10-12 weeks during summer
Application Deadline: Varies; check specific postings
Eligibility: Students pursuing degrees in engineering, computer science, or related fields
Cost/Stipend: Paid positions
Northrop Grumman's internship program offers students the chance to work on projects in aerospace, defense, and cyber solutions. Interns participate in essential initiatives involving satellites, autonomous systems, and space exploration by joining actual engineering teams. The program strongly emphasizes innovation, leadership development, and mentoring. Interns are assigned fundamental duties, and they are expected to contribute significantly to their teams.
7. Raytheon Technologies Internships
Location: Various locations across the U.S.
Dates: Typically 10–12 weeks during summer
Application Deadline: Varies; early submissions recommended
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students in engineering or related fields
Cost/Stipend: Paid positions
Raytheon Technologies provides internships that enable students to work on aerospace and defense projects. As they engage with real-world challenges, interns contribute to the advancement of space and aviation systems.
The program strongly emphasizes hands-on experience, career progression, and the opportunity to collaborate with experienced professionals in the aerospace industry. Interns are anticipated to add value to their teams and are assigned meaningful tasks.
8. MITRE Student Programs: National Security and Aerospace
Location: McLean, VA; Bedford, MA; and remote options
Dates: Summer and year-round roles available
Application Deadline: Varies by term
Eligibility: U.S. citizens enrolled in accredited institutions
Cost/Stipend: Paid positions
Students can work on government-supported research in national defense, cybersecurity, and aerospace through MITRE's internship programs. Interns in the aerospace industry may work on projects involving satellite communications, advanced flying systems, and unmanned aerial vehicles. The program provides access to state-of-the-art labs, mentorship, and the chance to support national initiatives.
9. Sargent Aerospace & Defense Internship Program
Location: Tucson, AZ
Dates: Typically 10–12 weeks during the summer, starting mid to late May and concluding in early August.
Application Deadline: Typically March–April
Eligibility: College students majoring in aerospace, mechanical, or industrial engineering
Cost/Stipend: Paid positions
A comprehensive summer engineering internship program from Sargent Aerospace & Defense is available, and it aims to expose undergraduate students to practical engineering situations. Interns are assigned to specific projects in areas such as design, manufacturing, automation, and quality engineering, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge to practical applications. Social activities, such as trips to the Pima Air and Space Museum, axe throwing, escape rooms, and Topgolf, are organized to build lasting relationships among interns and staff.
Location: Kent, WA; Cape Canaveral, FL; Van Horn, TX
Dates: Summer internships (May–August)
Application Deadline: Typically December–January
Eligibility: Students enrolled in engineering or science programs
Cost/Stipend: Paid positions
Through Blue Origin's internship program, students can work on actual engineering projects pertaining to the design, building, and testing of human spaceflight systems. Interns work closely with seasoned engineers in a variety of sectors, such as manufacturing, avionics, propulsion, and systems engineering. Interns gain practical training and guidance from seasoned professionals during the program, acquiring essential skills that will distinguish them in their future careers.
11. Iowa Space Grant Consortium Internship Program
Location: Various institutions in Iowa and at NASA centers
Dates: Varies; summer and academic year options
Application Deadline: Typically in early spring
Eligibility: Students attending Iowa universities in STEM fields
Cost/Stipend: Paid through ISGC grants
Through paid internships provided by the Iowa Space Grant Consortium (ISGC), students can work at NASA facilities, aerospace firms like Collins Aerospace, and STEM education institutions like the Science Centre of Iowa. Students can engage in real-world space science, aerospace systems, and educational projects through these programs. These projects frequently involve scientific communication, propulsion systems, and satellite technologies.
12. Virgin Galactic Internship Program
Location: Mojave, CA; Las Cruces, NM
Dates: Summer internships (June–August)
Application Deadline: January–February
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate engineering students
Cost/Stipend: Paid positions
Students can work on innovative commercial spaceflight projects for 12 weeks through Virgin Galactic's Summer Internship Program. Interns work on real-world engineering difficulties in fields like safety, avionics, systems testing, propulsion, and airframe design. The curriculum offers a thorough grasp of the aerospace business through team-building activities, leadership seminars, and mentoring from seasoned professionals.