7 Engineering Internships for High School Students To Apply

Curious minds always look for turning the ideas on paper into real-world solutions. No wonder many high school students develop interest in various engineering fields. From learning about construction and mechanics to exploring the world of IT, the intelligent brains need to be fueled. An excellent way to keep students engaged is through engineering internships. 

Engineering internships help students enter the realistic world where formulas come to execution and theories are applied in experiments. While students can pursue different chemical engineering summer programs or something equivalent, internships give an additional edge. High schoolers discover what it really takes to build the future, and that too well before graduation. 

Engineering Internships for High Schoolers

While students take active part in various engineering activities, internships become a gateway for endless possibilities. The right program can sharpen their skills and introduce them to the reality of working in their respective fields. The below-mentioned engineering internships help high schoolers jump-start their journey while networking, earning, and collaborating with like-minded individuals.

1. Ladder Internships

For high schoolers looking for hands-on experience with the fastest-growing start-ups, Ladder Internships can be an ideal way. It offers an eight-week virtual program where participants become part of innovative teams. High school students get an opportunity to work in diverse fields, like innovative teams working in fields as diverse as artificial intelligence, health, technology, journalism, and so on.

What makes it stand out is the fact that these start-ups have raised more than a million dollars in funding. Hence, students can genuinely connect with ambitious founders. They not only learn scale quickly but also develop collaboration skills. Students also receive guidance from a dedicated Ladder Coach. These internships give students a genuine outlook on the entrepreneurial world.

2. Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP)

Imagine spending your summer not just learning science, but living it. High schoolers can now do that in a cutting-edge Navy research lab. The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) is open to a small group of exceptional high school students. Instead of textbooks, high schoolers receive high-tech tools to tackle real projects. They also get an opportunity to gain experience from Navy scientists during the internship. 

It is an 8-week internship where students are exposed to various problem-solving skills. There are 30+ labs across the United States, offering different specializations. Students can choose from robotics, aerospace, statistics, cybersecurity, and more, depending on their interest areas and availability. It is important to note that this internship is highly selective to well-performing students.

3. Honeywell 

Honeywell offers exciting internship opportunities for high school students as well as graduates. The company generally has multiple open roles for fields such as engineering, software development, finance, and supply chain management. Hence, students can actively search for desired internships in their areas of interest. 

These internships provide hands-on experience as high schoolers get to work on innovative projects. They also receive practical mentorship from industry professionals. Students learn to collaborate in a dynamic environment, thereby expanding their network. It is important to keep checking the company’s website for summer internships and other opportunities. 

4. ECI

For high school students interested in civil engineering or different areas of construction, internships at ECI can be beneficial. ECI Constructors offers dynamic internship programs for fieldwork and office-based roles. Hence, students get real-world experience on innovative construction projects. 

Interns gain exposure in specialized areas such as geotechnical construction, pipeline rehabilitation, underground construction, and so on. Most internships run for 12 weeks during the summer. However, the company also offers year-round placements. It helps high schoolers gain knowledge on project management, dealing with senior authorities, and collaborating with industry experts.

5. NASA Internship Programs

Here is something interesting for high schoolers. NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) offers paid internships across the United States. Students can also find virtual opportunities on the website. These internships provide hands-on experience in science and technology. They further acquire knowledge on aeronautics and space exploration. 

Interning at NASA allows students to work directly with research scientists, engineers, and other professionals. The organization also offers full-time and part-time roles along with remote opportunities. The prestigious internship makes a significant impact for further studies and career. High schoolers must keep checking NASA’s internship database regularly to find suitable openings.

6. Idaho National Laboratory 

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) provides excellent summer internships to high schoolers. They generally last between 10 and 16 weeks, giving hands-on experience to students. The initial six weeks are spent working directly in the lab alongside a mentor. The remaining part of the internship is more about skill development and enrichment activities. 

Interns can choose from a variety of fields, including various aspects of engineering. Certain internships are also available in the fields of cybersecurity and transportation technology. Students can apply to multiple areas according to their interests. They also provide stipends depending on different academic levels.

7. National Institute of Standards and Technology 

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) offers an academically beneficial internship program. High schoolers gain practical experience as they work on real scientific research projects. Moreover, the mentorship of experienced NIST scientists and engineers adds excitement to the learning journey. They get an opportunity to design experiments and apply scientific principles in a professional laboratory environment.

Most internships provide deeper knowledge in STEM fields such as physics, chemistry, and computer science. Languages like Python and Java are also a part of this unpaid internship. High schoolers get an opportunity to explore AI, robotics, and next-generation computing. Such a journey improves critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Things to Know Before Applying for Engineering Internships 

• Always check eligibility including citizenship, GPA and so on. 
• Note application deadlines for each one.
• Prepare resume, transcripts, and letters.
• Brush up on required skills before interviews.
• Be mentally ready for commitment.
• Plan for housing/transportation if you are looking for a farther location.
• Prepare yourself for competition as internships are highly selective.
• Use networking opportunities wisely.

Wrapping Up

With the right mindset, scores, and research, high schoolers can be a part of interesting internships. It is also important to actively engage in extracurricular activities along with academics to increase the chance of getting selected. While stepping into engineering internships can sound challenging, the process is indeed rewarding. It is the first spark that ignites curiosity and lifelong passion for the desired career.