22 November, 2024

Why NASA Is a Great Place to Launch Your Career

A group of male and female interns at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory pose for photos in eclipse glasses. Looking up in a circle the group smiles and wears business casual attire laboratory instruments and devices are visible around the peripheral of the image. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

Students at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory pose for photos around the laboratory wearing their eclipse glasses.

Credits: NASA/JPL-Caltech

Recently recognized as the most prestigious internship program by Vault.com, NASA has empowered countless students and early-career professionals to launch careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. NASA interns make real contributions to space and science missions, making it one of the best places to start your career.

“NASA internships give students the chance to work on groundbreaking projects alongside experts, providing impactful opportunities for professional growth,” said Mike Kincaid, associate administrator for NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement. “Since starting my career as an intern at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, I’ve experienced firsthand how NASA creates lasting connections and open doors—not just for me, but for former interns who are now colleagues across the agency. These internships build STEM skills, confidence, and networks, preparing the next generation of innovators and leaders.”

NASA interns achieve impressive feats, from discovering new exoplanets to becoming astronauts and even winning Webby Awards for their science communication efforts. These valuable contributors play a crucial role in NASA’s mission to explore the unknown for the benefit of all. Many NASA employees start their careers as interns, a testament to the program’s lasting impact.

A group of three male interns congratulate the 23rd class of astronauts at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston on March 5, 2024. The trio smile while holding a colorful sign displaying an astronaut giving a thumbs up and text reading “Reach for the stars!” The group wears casual attire and sit before an audience of other members of the NASA workforce and community. Launch Your Career with NASA.

Students congratulate the 23rd astronaut class at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston on March 5, 2024.

NASA/Josh Valcarcel

Additionally, NASA is recognized as one of America’s Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers for New Graduates by Forbes, reflecting the agency’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. NASA encourages people from underrepresented groups to apply, creating a diverse cohort of interns who bring a wide range of perspectives and ideas to the agency.

“My internship experience has been incredible. I have felt welcomed by everyone I’ve worked with, which has been so helpful as a Navajo woman as I’ve often felt like an outsider in male-dominated STEM spaces,” said Tara Roanhorse, an intern for NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement.

If you’re passionate about space, technology, and making a difference in the world, NASA’s internship program is the perfect place to begin your journey toward a fulfilling and impactful career.

To learn more about NASA’s internship programs, visit: https://www.intern.nasa.gov/

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