10 Best Engineering Internships for High School Students
Engineering internships offer high school students a hands-on way to explore one of the most versatile and in-demand fields in STEM. Whether you're interested in mechanical, electrical, civil, or software engineering, internships provide real-world experience that goes beyond classroom learning.
These opportunities allow you to work on practical projects, develop technical and problem-solving skills, and gain exposure to professional environments. Many programs also offer mentorship from engineers and researchers, helping you build connections and better understand what a career in engineering might look like.
To help you get started, we’ve curated a list of the 10 best engineering internships for high school students — each designed to offer valuable experience, industry insight, and skill development.
1. Spirit AeroSystems High School Internship Program
This internship offers high school students a firsthand glimpse into modern aerospace manufacturing. As an intern in this paid program, you will work on projects that focus on sheet metal and composites assembly, fabrication, machining, and quality inspection. You will also gain valuable exposure to engineering, finance, and supply chain processes through immersive projects and mentorship from industry professionals. This experience is designed to spark interest in advanced manufacturing and aerospace careers while also providing practical insights about the industry.
Location: Spirit AeroSystems, Wichita, KS
Dates: To be announced
Application deadline: To be announced; check out this website for updates.
Eligibility: Junior or senior students; must be 16 years old before the start date (students selected for the Fabrication learning track must be 18 before the start date).
Stipend: $14/hour
2. Ladder Internships – Engineering Track
Ladder Internships offers ambitious high school students a chance to gain real-world experience by working remotely with high-growth start-ups. As an intern, you can work 10–20 hours per week for 8–12 weeks on projects that will expose you to the various aspects of engineering — from drafting designs and running simulations to participating in the development and testing of mechanical systems such as automotive parts, robotics, or HVAC systems.
Mentorship is a key component here! You will work with experienced professionals and a dedicated Ladder Coach as they guide you through practical challenges and help you refine your problem-solving and analytical skills. The program also provides opportunities to present work and receive industry feedback, making it an ideal stepping stone into an engineering career.
Location: Remote (work from anywhere)
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter).
Application deadline: Various deadlines throughout the year; The deadline for the Summer cohort is April 13. Apply here!
Eligibility: High school students, undergraduates, or gap year students able to commit 10–20 hours per week for 8–12 weeks.
Cost: $2,490
3. Los Alamos National Laboratory High School Internship
This internship offers qualified high school seniors from northern New Mexico the opportunity to work alongside top scientists and engineers on research projects. Working as an intern here will give you experience in various STEM disciplines, including engineering, physics, chemistry, and computer science.
You will work on projects including data analysis, experimentation, and the creation of cutting-edge technologies that highlight fundamental engineering concepts. The program emphasizes mentorship and collaboration. Professionals provide guidance and support while also offering opportunities for site visits and project presentations.
Location: Los Alamos National Laboratory, NM
Dates: Varies depending on opportunity; you can check out this page to see available internships!
Application deadline: April 15
Eligibility:
Fall/Spring cohort: Must be a high school senior at the time of application
Summer cohort: Open to rising seniors (apply as a junior, intern the summer before senior year)
Must be at least 16 years old when the internship begins
Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
Must attend a high school in northern New Mexico
Cost/Stipend: No cost; stipend provided ($16.5/hour)
4. Veritas AI
Veritas AI, founded and run by Harvard graduate students, offers innovative programs for high school students passionate about artificial intelligence and its engineering applications. The AI Scholars program is a 10‑session boot camp that introduces the fundamentals of AI, machine learning, and data science through hands‑on projects and interactive workshops.
For advanced students, the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase provides one-on‑one mentorship with top university experts, enabling them to work on individualized projects and secure research publications. These virtual programs emphasize real-world problem solving, technical skill development, and collaborative learning. As an intern here, you will gain invaluable experience that bridges academic theory with practical engineering challenges!
Location: Virtual
Dates: Multiple 12‑15-week cohorts throughout the year (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)
Application deadline: The upcoming summer application deadline is April 27. Apply here!
Eligibility: Ambitious high school students worldwide; AI Fellowship applicants should have completed the AI Scholars program or demonstrate experience with AI concepts or Python.
Cost: $2,290 for the 10-week AI Scholars program | $5,400 for the 15-week AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase | $6,900 for both. Need-based financial aid is available for AI Scholars. You can apply here.
5. Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) – Navy Labs
SEAP places academically talented high school students as apprentices in Department of Defense laboratories for an eight‑week summer internship. As an intern here, you will work side‑by‑side with research personnel and gain practical experience in scientific and engineering practices that are usually not available in a typical school setting.
The program spans more than 25 Navy laboratories nationwide, offering exposure to real‑world defense research projects, mentoring, and collaboration with professionals in STEM fields. SEAP not only builds technical skills but also fosters a positive view of the defense community and inspires students to pursue STEM careers.
Location: Navy Laboratories (Nationwide)
Dates: 8 weeks in the summer (exact dates vary by lab)
Application deadline: November 1; applications open on August 1 on this website!
Eligibility: U.S. citizens; applicants must have a strong background in science and mathematics; selection is based on academic performance, standardized test scores, teacher recommendations, and personal statements; transportation to and from the lab site is the student’s responsibility.
Stipend:
$4,000 for first-time participants
$4,500 for returning participants
6. Carnegie Mellon Summer Engineering Experience (SEE)
The Summer Engineering Experience (SEE) at Carnegie Mellon is a week-long program designed for rising 8th through 11th graders passionate about math and science. In Session 1, you will explore “Making & Engineering” by engaging in group and individual projects using everyday household items to learn design, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
Session 2 focuses on Biomedical Engineering, where you will dive into interdisciplinary topics like biomechanics, bioinstrumentation, and 3D bioprinting through interactive presentations and hands‑on project work. Participants benefit from direct mentorship, collaborative learning, and practical projects that illustrate core engineering concepts. Note that SEE is a commuter program; housing is not provided, so local applicants are encouraged!
Location: Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA
Dates:
Session 1: July 7 – 11
Session 2: July 21 – 25
Application deadline: April 10. Apply here!
Eligibility: Rising 8th–9th graders for Session 1 and rising 10th–11th graders for Session 2; must commit to attending daily.
Cost: Free
7. NASA OSTEM High School Internship Program
The NASA OSTEM High School Internship offers students the chance to work alongside NASA scientists and engineers on advanced space exploration projects. Interning here will give you the chance to participate in practical problem-solving and engage in projects that span robotics, satellite communication, and aerospace engineering.
The program emphasizes mentorship, interactive workshops, and networking events that foster technical and teamwork skills. You will also be immersed in NASA’s innovative culture, gaining access to advanced technology and professional resources. This internship is a solid gateway to exploring a future in space exploration and technology while learning to apply classroom knowledge to tangible challenges!
Location: Various NASA Centers (in-person and virtual)
Dates:
Spring Session: Mid-January to Early May
Summer Session: Late May to August
Fall Session: Late August to Mid-December
Application deadline:
Fall: May 16
Spring: September 12
Summer: February 27
Check out possible options and apply here!
Eligibility: U.S. citizens; full‑time students with a cumulative 3.0 GPA; minimum age of 16 at the time of application.
Cost/Stipend: Most opportunities are paid, although they can vary
8. The Army Educational Outreach Program (AEOP) High School Internship
The AEOP High School Internship immerses students in the dynamic environment of U.S. Army Research Laboratories and Centers. As an intern, you will work directly with professional scientists and engineers on research projects that address national challenges through cutting‑edge technology and innovative engineering practices.
Throughout the program, you will gain essential experiences, learn lab techniques, and participate in mentorship and professional development sessions. Although the internship is on‑site, transportation, meals, and housing are the student's responsibility.
Location: U.S. Army Research Laboratories and Centers
Dates: Typically 6–10 weeks, May–August (specific dates depend on location)
Application deadline: Rolling basis; specific site deadlines may apply. Apply here!
Eligibility: Current high school students who are U.S. citizens or permanent legal residents; additional prerequisites or coursework may apply.
Cost/Stipend: No cost; stipend provided
9. SPARK Summer Mentorship Program
The SPARK Summer Mentorship Program (SMP) offers high school students in the Greater Seattle area the chance to explore real-world applications of STEM through immersive, mentor-guided projects. Students are matched with professionals across diverse fields — ranging from engineering and computer science to biomedical research and entrepreneurship — and work on hands-on projects that develop both technical and soft skills.
As a participant, you can gain exposure to topics like coding, data analysis, mechanical design, and more, depending on your project assignment. The program includes workshops, mentorship sessions, and a culminating presentation, giving students valuable insight into future academic and career paths. Some projects also offer stipends.
Location: The program is conducted virtually, with in-person opportunities in Greater Seattle, WA
Dates: ~8 to 12 weeks, usually from May to August, depending on the opportunity
Application deadline: April 22
Eligibility: High school students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and live in the United States. Additionally, only WA state students will be eligible unless the project is located out of state
Cost/Stipend: Free; most projects offer stipends.
10. Sandia National Laboratories Internships
Sandia National Laboratories offers a diverse range of internship opportunities that cater to students from high school to PhD level. As an intern, you can work on challenging projects across disciplines such as engineering design, software development, cybersecurity, and business operations. Expect to be paired with experienced mentors and gain practical training using state‑of‑the‑art equipment and tools, all while earning competitive pay.
The program includes both summer and year‑round offerings, with many internships providing academic credit and potential pathways to full‑time employment. In addition to technical work, you will benefit from professional development sessions and social activities that foster teamwork and innovation.
Location: Sandia National Laboratories (various sites).
Dates: Summer, co-op, and year-round internships exist with different dates. You can check the details here.
Application deadline: Varies depending on the internship
Eligibility: U.S. citizens; at least 16 years old; full‑time student status; minimum GPA requirements vary by position (3.0/4.0 for R&D and technical roles; 2.5/4.0 for clerical positions).
Stipend: Competitive pay rates as per internship chosen.
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