Launch Your Aerospace Career: High School Internships for the Innovators of Tomorrow

Did you know that NASA allows high school students to work on aerospace projects? Securing a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) internship as a high school student transforms your educational journey, putting you in a position to learn from professionals, gain practical experience, and explore STEM career opportunities. Imagine getting practical experience with the latest space technology while still in high school. This is only possible because of STEM internships for high school students. In this article, we will explore some of the top internships in aerospace engineering designed specifically for high school students, highlighting the unique benefits, potential challenges, and invaluable skills gained through these immersive summer program experiences.

The Allure of Aerospace Internships

Internships in aerospace engineering offer a plethora of advantages for any high school student aspiring to become a part of the aerospace industry. Firstly, these internships provide a hands-on experience that transcends theoretical knowledge, allowing a high schooler to apply classroom learning to real-world projects. Whether it's designing aircraft components, testing propulsion systems, or exploring the principles of aerodynamics, the practical exposure gained during these internships is essential for prospective students’ comprehensive understanding of aerospace engineering.

Secondly, an aerospace engineering internship or two allows students to explore the vast and multidisciplinary nature of the field. From aeronautics to astronautics, and from propulsion systems to avionics, students get a taste of the diverse specializations within aerospace engineering. This exposure aids them in honing their interests and shaping their future academic and career paths within this exhilarating field.

If you want to further your career beyond internships, check out these engineering competitions for high school students and learn what you can do with an engineering degree.

Top Aerospace Internship Opportunities for High School Students

Here are some of the most influential high school stem internships:

Read also: Your SpaceX Job Guide

1. NASA OSTEM Internship

The NASA Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) Internship program allows high school students to gain practical experience working together with scientists and engineers. Students work on actual projects to acquire practical skills in aerospace technology, robotics, programming, and scientific research. They also help to analyze satellite data and support engineering design efforts and scientific research. Mentors also provide career insights into STEM careers.

Location: NASA centers across the country
Pay/Cost: Application is free, and stipends are provided based on academic level.
Application Deadline: Feb. 28, 2025 (Summer) and May 16, 2025 (Fall)
Timeline: 16 Weeks in Spring, 10 weeks in Summer, and 16 weeks in Fall. Specific dates to be announced
Eligibility: High school students who are at least 16 years old. They must be US citizens and maintain a minimum of 3.0 GPA on a scale of 4.0.

Students can choose between full-time or part-time positions. This arrangement allows participants to combine their academic studies with practical work experience. Students will find it easy to participate because the program offers multiple sessions throughout the year that match their individual schedules. The internship offers participants hands-on experience with advanced technology and research to strengthen their foundation for STEM career paths.

NASA Aeronautics Internship Program

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) offers a specialized internship program for high school seniors interested in aeronautics. Participants get the chance to work on projects ranging from aircraft design to airspace management, collaborating with NASA scientists and engineers. citizens and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. These paid internships are accessible across various NASA facilities during fall, spring, and summer sessions. The application process is centralized, with one application being considered agency-wide. Stipends for OSTEM interns are determined based on academic level and the duration of the session, and prior experience is not a prerequisite.

NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement provides, annually, more than 2,000 students the opportunity to impact the agency’s mission through a hands-on internship. NASA offers internships for non-STEM majors. Even if you are not a science or engineering student, you can get an internship at NASA! OSTEM internships offer students an opportunity to gain practical work experience while working side-by-side with mentors who are research scientists, engineers, and individuals from many other professions. Internships may be full time or part time on a NASA center or facility.

Join our NASA team and gain valuable on-the-job experience, build your resume, and strengthen your career readiness. A NASA internship provides a stellar opportunity to launch your future as part of America’s aerospace workforce. space program Communicate proficiently in English

Read also: Launch Your Career with SpaceX

A common misconception is that NASA only offers engineering internships. Please know that we have opportunities for students who are not majoring in engineering. NASA needs employees with a variety of knowledge and skills. At NASA, our engineers, mathematicians, scientists, accountants, writers, IT specialists, project managers, program analysts, and many other professionals work together to break barriers to achieve the seemingly impossible.

Interns are responsible for making their own housing arrangements. This includes locating their own housing options and paying for their housing. Your center location and housing options will determine if you need a car. At most centers, unless you find housing within walking distance, you will most likely need a car.

I'm not a science or engineering student. Yes! Interns may support a variety of business and program management work, including human resources, administration and program analysis, accounting and budget, communication and public relations, procurement and contracts, information technology, security, and education.

Success Stories

Aaron Yazzie, a former intern at JPL, inspires a new generation of Diné scientists and engineers, proving their voices have an essential place in the story of the cosmos.

Former intern Clare Luckey was selected as one of Forbes’ 30 under 30. Her hard work and determination has landed her at the forefront of space exploration as she helps plan how the first astronauts will land on Mars.

Read also: How to Get a SpaceX Internship

Vivian Li Remotely operating NASA's Perseverance Mars Rover from millions of miles away is no easy task. The Artemis Generation begins now, with us.

2. SpaceX Internships

While SpaceX generally offers internships for university students, there are occasionally opportunities available for high school juniors and seniors as well. These internships provide a unique chance to be part of projects related to rocket design, space missions, and cutting-edge aerospace technologies. Here is the current lineup of internship opportunities for Spring and Summer 2024.

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. SpaceX seeks extraordinary students to join us for software engineering roles in Summer 2026. As a software intern, you will work closely with your mentor and other employees who will help you apply your knowledge and grow your skills on projects that have a significant impact. You’ll also get to have some fun and network with other interns and employees through optional social and professional events. If you’ve demonstrated a commitment to academic success and motivation to apply your knowledge outside of the classroom, you are a great candidate! Your salary will be determined by academic level. Pay is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for a stipend to subsidize relocation costs, as well as access to our comprehensive medical coverage and a 401(k) retirement plan. Students joining SpaceX through our internship program will receive the opportunity to attend presentations from company leaders, social and networking events, as well as professional and personal development trainings. Interns are also eligible for paid company holidays. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

Software Internship Opportunities at SpaceX

APPLICATION SOFTWARE: The Application software team is currently creating and evolving systems to enable rapid build and reuse of Starship as well as designing the next generation manufacturing software that will be used in high throughput factories for Starlink. Other applications range from platforms that support concurrent streams of data from many always-on assets to manage the world’s largest satellite constellation to public facing systems where customers can join our Starlink network globally.
DRAGON SOFTWARE: As a software engineering intern on the Dragon Software team, you will develop, analyze and verify the mission critical software configurations that fly our Dragon Crewed and Cargo vehicles. You will partner cross-functionally to ensure software is configured to each mission's specifications and needs. You will be responsible for ensuring the vehicle behaves as expected, and troubleshooting flight software when necessary.
FALCON SOFTWARE: As a software engineering intern on the Falcon Software team, you will develop, analyze and verify the mission critical software that flies our Falcon and Falcon Heavy launch vehicles. You will be responsible for ensuring the vehicle behaves as expected, is adequately tested prior to launches, and troubleshoot flight software when necessary.
GUIDANCE, NAVIGATION & CONTROL (GNC): The GNC teams at SpaceX support our Dragon, Falcon, Starlink, Starshield and Starship programs by developing highly reliable and performant GNC algorithms, simulations, tools, services, and dashboards.
PRODUCT SECURITY: The Starlink Product Security team is seeking technical, passionate engineers to secure Starlink software and hardware. We are looking for people who see the big picture, prioritize accordingly, and are comfortable with working at different levels of abstraction.
SILICON ENGINEERING: Designs, develops and qualifies our custom developed semiconductor solutions. The group partners with other engineering teams and industry partners to create innovative digital, analog and mixed-signal ASICs and FPGAs. This group develops a broad variety of chips in CMOS, BiCMOS, GaAs and GaN technologies, from large SoC's to mmWave RFICs. The work includes but is not limited to: system architecture, full flow IC development, RF and PCB development, custom packaging, integration & test, SW development and semiconductor qualification.
STARLINK SOFTWARE: The Starlink software team is solving challenges underpinning every aspect of SpaceX’s satellite internet project, and we’re looking for engineers to join us in building the next-generation networking technologies to direct data through an ever-changing network of satellites, ground stations, and users.
STARSHIELD SOFTWARE: The Starshield software team is building highly reliable in-space mesh networks, designing secure systems to guarantee access to space, designing next-generation communication and sensing software, and more. Aerospace experience is not required to be successful here - we want our engineers to bring fresh, diverse ideas from all areas. The Starshield software team is involved in designing the vehicle systems at every phase of development and building software systems that are secure, reliable, and autonomous.
STARSHIP SOFTWARE: The Starship software team is responsible for building and testing the control systems, network, and operational software for Starship, the Super Heavy Booster, and our launch pads in Starbase. On this team, you will work closely with engineers across the company to prepare our vehicle for its first orbital flights and to lay the groundwork for future crewed flights and human lander programs.

The SpaceX Engineering Internship-Summer is available to undergraduate students enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in engineering, physics, or math. citizen and have three+ months of applied engineering experience to be eligible for this internship. Preference is given to applicants who have a minimum GPA of 3.5 and have six+ months experience of application of technical skills outside of the classroom (examples: laboratory, research, extracurricular project teams, volunteering, personal projects or prior internship/work experience). As an intern, you will work closely with your mentor and other employees who will help you apply your knowledge and grow your skills on projects that have a significant impact and network with other interns and employees through optional social and professional events. Internships are located in Brownsville, TX, Cape Canaveral, FL, Hawthorne (Los Angeles), CA, Irvine, CA, McGregor (Waco), TX, Redmond (Seattle), WA, and Vandenberg, CA.

3. Boeing High School Internship Program

Boeing is another leading aerospace company that offers a high school internship program that exposes students to the world of aerospace engineering. Interns may work on projects related to aircraft design, manufacturing processes, and innovative technologies shaping the future of aviation. You can find more information here.

We’re committed to fostering an environment for every teammate that’s welcoming, respectful and inclusive, with opportunities for professional growth. Target Audience: Undergraduate and Graduate Students Pursuing Degrees in Engineering, Business, or Information Technology & Data Analytics Placement: Various Boeing Locations (Globally)

4. MIT Lincoln Laboratory Beaver Works Summer Institute

The MIT Lincoln Laboratory hosts the Beaver Works Summer Institute, providing high school students with an immersive aerospace engineering experience. The program covers a range of topics, including satellite systems, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and space exploration. Note: the online courses for the 2024 program will be opened on Feb 1, 2024 and registrations are processed on a rolling basis. For the students who cannot attend in person, registrations for the online courses will open in December 2023.

5. Lockheed Martin High School Internship Program

Lockheed Martin is a global aerospace and defense company that provides high school students with internship opportunities in various aerospace engineering disciplines. Interns work on projects related to space exploration, satellite systems, and advanced aeronautics technologies. inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold, including programming to strengthen their interest and confidence in pursuing STEM education and careers.

Lockheed Martin Space’s High School Internship Program is designed to give students interested in pursuing STEM-related careers the opportunity to work with aerospace scientists and engineers. High school seniors graduating in May 2025 are not eligible for the high school internship program.

Additional Internship and Co-op Programs

Lockheed MartinInternships and Co-Ops Student programs that start your career in a meaningful way. Gain real-world experience, support innovative breakthroughs, and learn from Lockheed Martin experts. Target Audience: Undergraduate and Graduate Students Placement: Various Lockheed Martin Locations

Other Notable STEM Internships

National Institute of Health (NIH): One of the best internship programs for high schoolers who want to study biomedical science or behavioral and social sciences. Principal Investigators lead research teams in which interns participate to work on projects from biology and engineering to epidemiology and pharmaceutical sciences.
Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP): It allows high school students to experience what it feels like to work in the Department of Navy laboratories. During the program, interns work alongside leading scientists and engineers to gain practical experience in STEM disciplines such as robotics, cybersecurity, aerospace, and marine technology.
Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) Internship program: Students get practical experience in various research areas including engineering, energy management, and information technology.
Idaho National Laboratory (INL) Internship Program: This program offers a conducive environment for students to collaborate with seasoned scientists and engineers to create innovative solutions for complex real-world problems.
Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program: This program supports high school students to gain hands-on experience at the California Academy of Sciences.
JSA/Jefferson Lab High School Summer Honors Program: High school students can participate in scientific or technical projects with guidance from Jefferson Lab staff.
Princeton Laboratory Learning Program (LLP): It gives high school students practical research opportunities next to top scientists who work on the latest scientific breakthroughs.
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center HOPP Summer Student Program: This program engages high school students in an intensive, eight-week research in biomedical or computational sciences.
BioBus Junior Scientist Internship: Students in the BioBus Junior Scientist Internship gain practical experience by participating in scientific research and science communication.
Genspace BioRocket Internship: During the Genspace BioRocket Internship, high school students engage in six months of research in genetic engineering and biology.

Additional Aerospace Internship Opportunities

The Aerospace Company Internships & Co-ops: Aerospace offices across the country offer internships and co-op programs to help students find their place in space and an idea of what it’s like to work at The Aerospace Corporation. Target Audience: Rising Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors, and Graduate Students; Limited Number of Opportunities for High School Students Placement: The Aerospace Corporation Locations: El Segundo, CA; Colorado Springs, CO; Chantilly, VA; Albuquerque, NM
Axiom Space Internships: As an Engineer Intern, you will participate in learning opportunities designed to expose students to multiple disciplines. Target Audience: Undergraduate or Graduate Students with at Least One Semester Remaining After Internship Placement: Houston, TX
Ball Aerospace Internships: A summer internship at Ball Aerospace provides the tools you need to launch your career. Through challenging projects, mentorship, and hands-on experience, our interns have an opportunity to gain valuable firsthand experience in the aerospace and defense industry. As an intern, you’ll be involved in networking events with our executives, Ball site tours, career development opportunities and more. Target Audience: University Juniors, Seniors and Graduate Students Placement: Boulder, CO
Blue Origin Internships: Our internship program gives students the opportunity to work on real engineering projects related to the development, construction, and testing of human spaceflight systems. Interns work directly with our engineers to contribute to project goals. Target Audience: Undergraduate or Graduate Students with at Least One Semester Remaining After Internships Placement: Blue Origin Locations: Kent, WA; Huntsville, AL; Merritt Island, FL; Van Horn, TX
Northrop Grumman Internships & Co-ops: When you become an intern at Northrop Grumman, you’ll contribute from your first day on a wide range of projects - some with high visibility, others with a low profile. While getting hands-on experience, you might discover an interest you didn’t know you had. Target Audience: Undergraduate and Graduate Students Placement: Various Northrop Grumman Locations
Redwire Space Internships: One of the most important aspects of interning for Redwire is the hands-on work experience it provides and how this experience impacts future endeavors. is a leading innovative space technology company headquartered in Lexington, KY. The company is comprised of a dynamic team that provides end-to-end services including the design and building of products that use microgravity

Navigating the Challenges

While aerospace engineering internships for high school students offer incredible opportunities, certain challenges may arise. Addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts to ensure that the internships are accessible, educational, and safe for participants.

Advanced Technical Knowledge
- Challenge: High school students may lack the advanced technical knowledge required for certain aerospace engineering projects.
- Solution: Preparatory workshops or online courses can be organized to equip students with foundational knowledge before the start of the internship. These programs can cover basic principles of aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and other essential concepts.
Safety Concerns in Aerospace Environments
- Challenge: Aerospace engineering involves working with complex machinery and potentially hazardous materials.
- Solution: Strict safety protocols, mentorship from experienced professionals, and proper supervision can ensure a safe learning environment. Internship programs can also provide safety training sessions to familiarize students with industry standards.
Limited Access to Aerospace Facilities
- Challenge: Access to state-of-the-art aerospace facilities may be limited due to security measures.
- Solution: Virtual tours, simulations, and remote projects can be integrated into internship programs to provide students with insights into aerospace facilities and technologies without physical access.

Skills Developed Through Aerospace Internships

Participating in aerospace engineering internships during high school provides students with a diverse set of skills essential for success in this dynamic and innovative field.

Technical Proficiency
Internships in aerospace engineering enhance students' technical proficiency, granting them the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world projects. Skills in aircraft design, propulsion systems, and avionics technologies are honed through hands-on experience.
Problem-solving and Critical Thinking
Aerospace engineering projects often involve complex problem-solving. High school students develop critical thinking skills as they tackle challenges related to aerodynamics, flight dynamics, and the optimization of aerospace systems throughout their summer internships.
Collaboration and Teamwork
Working on aerospace projects requires collaboration with peers and professionals. Students learn to work effectively in teams, an essential skill in the collaborative nature of aerospace engineering projects.
Innovation and Creativity
Aerospace engineering is a field that thrives on innovation. Internships encourage students to think creatively, proposing and implementing novel solutions to engineering challenges.
Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial in aerospace engineering projects. High school students develop communication skills as they articulate their ideas, present findings, and collaborate with team members and industry professionals.

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