15 Great Engineering Internships for High School Students in 2024
Are you a high school student passionate about engineering and eager to dive into real-world experiences? Securing an internship can be a pivotal step in your journey towards a career in engineering. However, finding the right opportunity can be daunting. To simplify your search, we've curated a list of 15 engineering internships across various domains that could be a perfect fit for you in 2024!
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15 Engineering Internships for High School Students in 2024
1. TARGET by Fermilab
Location: Fermilan, Illinois
Program Dates: June 17 - July 26, 2024
Eligibility: Illinois high school sophomores and juniors
TARGET, offered by Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab), is an intensive paid summer internship program designed for high school sophomores and juniors in Illinois who have a keen interest in engineering, physics, mathematics, or computer science. As a TARGET intern, you'll have the opportunity to collaborate with Fermilab scientists and engineers on cutting-edge research projects in particle physics and accelerator technology. From analyzing data from particle collisions to designing experimental apparatus, you'll gain hands-on experience in scientific inquiry and problem-solving while working alongside experts in the field. Additionally, the program offers mentorship and guidance to help you explore your interests and prepare for future studies and career opportunities in STEM fields.
2. QuarkNet Summer Research Program
Location: various labs across the U.S.
Program Dates: June 17 - August 2, 2024
Eligibility: Illinois high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors
The QuarkNet Summer Research Program offers high school students a unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research at Fermilab, America's premier laboratory for particle physics research. As a participant in the program, you'll work alongside scientists and engineers on projects related to particle physics, accelerator technology, and computer science. Whether you're analyzing data from particle collisions or designing experimental apparatus, you'll gain hands-on experience and insight into the fundamental nature of the universe. Additionally, QuarkNet provides mentorship and support to help you develop your skills and pursue your interests in STEM fields.
3. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Internships
Location: Various locations across the United States
Program Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer Cohorts
Eligibility: U.S. Citizen with a minimum GPA of 3.0
NASA offers a wide array of internship opportunities for high school students across its various centers and facilities located throughout the United States. These internships provide an unparalleled chance to work alongside leading scientists and engineers on cutting-edge projects in fields such as aerospace engineering, robotics, and planetary science. Whether you're interested in designing spacecraft, analyzing satellite data, or conducting experiments in microgravity, NASA internships offer hands-on experience and mentorship that can shape your future career in engineering and space exploration. As a participant, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to real-world missions and research initiatives while gaining insight into the complexities of space exploration and scientific discovery.
4. Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) - Department of Navy
Location: various labs across the U.S.
Program Dates: vary
Eligibility: U.S. high school juniors and seniors
The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP), sponsored by the Department of Navy, offers high school students the opportunity to engage in hands-on research and technology projects at Navy laboratories across the country. As a SEAP participant, you'll work alongside Navy scientists and engineers on projects ranging from aerospace engineering and materials science to cybersecurity and robotics. Through this immersive experience, you'll gain valuable skills and knowledge while contributing to real-world projects that support the Navy's mission of innovation and technological advancement. Additionally, SEAP provides mentorship and networking opportunities to help you explore your interests and pursue future studies and careers in STEM fields.
5. Air Force Research Laboratory Scholars Program
Location: Varies based on program
Program Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer Cohorts
Eligibility: U.S. Citizen with a minimum GPA of 3.0
The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Scholars Program offers a unique opportunity for high school students to engage in hands-on research projects alongside leading scientists and engineers in the field of aerospace and mechanical design. Through this program, participants gain valuable insight into the latest advancements in aviation technology and defense systems while working on real-world challenges faced by the Air Force. As an AFRL scholar, you'll have the chance to collaborate with mentors on projects ranging from drone development to advanced materials testing, gaining practical skills and knowledge that can pave the way for a successful career in engineering. Whether you're passionate about aircraft design, propulsion systems, or robotics, the AFRL Scholars Program provides a supportive environment where you can explore your interests and make meaningful contributions to the future of aerospace innovation.
6. University of New Hampshire’s High Tech Bound
Location: University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH
Program Dates: summer 2024
Eligibility: U.S. high school students
The High Tech Bound program at the University of New Hampshire offers rising seniors a 4-6 week summer internship experience focused on exploring network technologies in a real-world environment. As a participant in the program, you'll work in the university's computer laboratory alongside mentors on software and hardware projects from companies such as Apple, Dell, and Cisco. Through hands-on projects and field trips to high-tech companies, you'll gain valuable skills and knowledge while learning from industry experts. Additionally, the program provides mentorship and support to help you explore your interests and prepare for future studies and careers in technology fields.
7. Research Science Institute
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
Program Dates: summer 2024
Eligibility: 100 high schoolers selected across the U.S.
The Research Science Institute (RSI) is an intensive six-week summer program hosted by the Center for Excellence in Education (CEE) in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). RSI is designed to provide highly motivated and academically talented high school students with an unparalleled opportunity to engage in cutting-edge scientific research. Participants spend their summer immersed in a rigorous academic environment, working closely with leading scientists, researchers, and professors from around the world. Through hands-on laboratory experiences, independent research projects, and interactive seminars, RSI students delve into a wide range of scientific disciplines, including physics, biology, chemistry, mathematics, computer science, and engineering. For a detailed guide on applying to RSI, check out our comprehensive blog post on the program here.
8. Sandia National Laboratories Internships
Location: Albuquerque, NM; Livermore, CA
Program Dates: both summer and year-round offerings
Eligibility: U.S. high school students
Sandia National Laboratories offers internships for high school students interested in gaining experience in engineering and scientific research. As an intern at Sandia, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside leading researchers on projects ranging from renewable energy and cybersecurity to materials science and robotics. Whether you're analyzing data, conducting experiments, or developing new technologies, you'll gain valuable hands-on experience and insight into the world of cutting-edge research. Additionally, Sandia provides mentorship and support to help you explore your interests and prepare for future studies and careers in STEM fields.
9. Los Alamos National Laboratory Internship
Location: Los Alamos National Laboratory, NM
Program Dates: vary
Eligibility: northern New Mexico high school seniors
Los Alamos National Laboratory offers internships for high school seniors in northern New Mexico, providing them with the opportunity to work on research projects alongside leading scientists and engineers. As an intern at Los Alamos, you'll have the chance to contribute to projects in various disciplines, including engineering, physics, chemistry, and computer science. Whether you're conducting experiments, analyzing data, or developing new technologies, you'll gain valuable hands-on experience and insight into the world of scientific research. Additionally, Los Alamos provides mentorship and support to help you explore your interests and prepare for future studies and careers in STEM fields.
10. National Institute of Standards and Technology Internships
Location: Boulder, CO; Gaithersburg, MD
Program Dates: June 18 - August 9, 2024
Eligibility: U.S. high school juniors and seniors
The Summer High School Intern Program at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) offers rising seniors the opportunity to engage in scientific research at one of NIST's world-class laboratories. As a participant in the program, you'll work alongside NIST scientists and engineers on projects related to communications technology, materials science, and information technology. Whether you're conducting experiments, analyzing data, or developing new technologies, you'll gain valuable hands-on experience and insight into the world of scientific research. Additionally, NIST provides mentorship and support to help you explore your interests and prepare for future studies and careers in STEM fields.
11. SEES Summer High School Intern Program by NASA and UT Austin
Location: UT Austin, TX
Program Dates: July 7-20, 2024 (11th grade); July 27 - August 4, 2024 (10th grade)
Eligibility: high school sophomore and juniors
The SEES Summer High School Intern Program, a collaborative effort between NASA, the Texas Space Grant Consortium, and the University of Texas at Austin, offers high school students a unique opportunity to engage in earth and space research. As a SEES intern, you'll have the chance to work on projects related to astronaut photography, galaxy classification, climate research, and mission design. Through hands-on research and data analysis, you'll gain valuable insight into the scientific processes behind space exploration and earth science. Additionally, the program provides a supportive learning environment where you can collaborate with peers and mentors, develop your skills, and explore potential career paths in STEM fields.
12. Idaho National Laboratory Internship
Location: Idaho National Laboratory, ID
Program Dates: vary
Eligibility: U.S. high school students about 16
The Idaho National Laboratory (INL) offers high school students a unique opportunity to participate in six-week internships focused on applying STEM concepts to real-world problems. As an INL intern, you'll work alongside researchers and engineers on projects related to advanced transportation technology, clean energy, and cybersecurity. Whether you're conducting experiments, analyzing data, or developing solutions to complex challenges, you'll gain valuable hands-on experience and insight into the world of scientific research. Additionally, INL provides mentorship and support to help you explore your interests and prepare for future studies and careers in STEM fields.
13. SPARK Summer Internship Program
Location: Greater Seattle area
Program Dates: June-August
Eligibility: U.S. high school students
The SPARK Summer Internship Program offers high school students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in engineering and technology through projects with industry partners in the Greater Seattle Area. As a SPARK intern, you'll have the chance to work on real-world projects in areas such as software development, data analysis, and engineering design. Whether you're developing new software tools or designing innovative solutions to engineering challenges, you'll gain valuable skills and insight into the world of technology and innovation. Additionally, SPARK provides mentorship and support to help you explore your interests and prepare for future studies and careers in STEM fields.
14. California Academy of Sciences - Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program
Location: California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, CA
Program Dates: year-round
Eligibility: San Francisco high school students
The CiS Intern Program at the California Academy of Sciences is designed to provide San Francisco high school freshmen and sophomores from underrepresented communities in STEM fields with hands-on experience in science and sustainability. As a CiS intern, you'll have the opportunity to explore various areas of science, including environmental science, biology, and conservation. Through engaging in fieldwork and facilitating learning experiences for Academy visitors, you'll develop valuable skills and knowledge while working alongside scientists and educators. Additionally, the program offers mentorship and guidance to support your academic and career aspirations in STEM fields.
15. Ladder Internships (Tech Track)
Location: Remote
Program Dates: vary
Eligibility: high school students interested in STEM
Ladder Internships offers a unique opportunity for high school students to gain practical experience in computer science, technology, and machine learning through hands-on projects with startups. As a participant in the Tech Track program, you'll have the chance to work on real-world projects in areas such as artificial intelligence, software engineering, and data analysis, under the guidance of experienced mentors and industry professionals. Throughout the internship, you'll develop valuable technical skills and gain insight into the startup ecosystem, preparing you for future studies and careers in technology and innovation. With flexible scheduling and personalized support from Ladder Coaches, this internship provides a supportive environment where you can explore your interests and pursue your passion for technology.
About Inspirit AI
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