Have you ever dreamt of contributing to groundbreaking aerospace and defense projects, even before you graduate high school? Imagine working alongside brilliant engineers and scientists, gaining invaluable hands-on experience, and making a real impact on national security and technological advancement. Lockheed Martin, a global leader in these fields, offers an incredible opportunity for aspiring high school students through its highly sought-after internship program. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the application process, helping you maximize your chances of landing this prestigious internship.
Step 1: Discovering the Opportunity – Are You Ready to Launch Your Future?
Before diving into the application, let's confirm if you're a good fit and understand what Lockheed Martin looks for in its high school interns. Are you passionate about STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)? Do you thrive on solving complex problems and collaborating with others? If your answer is a resounding yes, then this internship could be your launchpad!
Understanding the Program
The Lockheed Martin High School Internship Program is designed to give students interested in STEM careers a unique opportunity to work on real-world projects. These are often paid internships, typically running for 9-10 weeks during the summer. You'll gain on-the-job training, mentorship, professional development, and networking opportunities.
Eligibility at a Glance:
Age: You must be at least 16 years of age at the start of the internship.
Enrollment: You need to be currently enrolled in high school. High school seniors graduating in May 2025 are typically not eligible for the high school program and should explore college internship opportunities instead.
Location: You must live within a commutable distance from a participating Lockheed Martin Space facility. Key locations often include Denver, CO; Sunnyvale, CA; Cape Canaveral, FL; King of Prussia/Valley Forge, PA; Huntsville, AL; and Herndon, VA.
Passion for STEM: A demonstrated interest and knowledge in STEM fields are crucial.
Citizenship: While not explicitly stated for all high school programs, many defense contractor positions require U.S. citizenship due to security clearance requirements. It's always best to check the specific job posting.
GPA: While not always a strict requirement for high school internships, maintaining a strong academic record, especially in STEM subjects, will strengthen your application. Some programs might suggest a minimum GPA of 3.0.
What You'll Do: As an intern, you might work on a variety of projects, from aerospace engineering and software development to quality engineering, data science, and production continuous improvement. You'll contribute to actual projects supporting national security, innovation, and exploration.
Step 2: Preparing Your Application – Polishing Your Profile ✨
Now that you know what it takes, it's time to get your application materials in order. Think of this as your opportunity to tell Lockheed Martin why you are the perfect candidate.
Building a Strong Resume (or Activity List)
Even if you don't have extensive work experience, you can still create a compelling resume. Focus on highlighting your academic achievements, relevant coursework, and any extracurricular activities that demonstrate your interest and skills in STEM.
Academic Excellence:
List your school name, expected graduation year, and any honors or awards.
Include relevant coursework, especially in advanced math, science, computer science, or engineering.
If your school offers a GPA, include it (especially if it's strong).
STEM-Related Activities: This is where you shine!
Clubs: Robotics clubs, coding clubs, science fair participation, engineering design challenges.
Projects: Personal coding projects, science experiments, building something, even tinkering with electronics. Be ready to discuss these in detail!
Competitions: Participation in STEM competitions like Code Quest® or CYBERQUEST® (Lockheed Martin's own competitions!) can be a huge plus and may even offer direct internship application opportunities to participants.
Volunteer Work: Any volunteer experience that showcases teamwork, problem-solving, or leadership.
Skills: List any technical skills you possess, such as programming languages (Python, Java, C++), software tools (CAD, Microsoft Office Suite), or hands-on skills.
Leadership & Teamwork: Highlight any roles where you demonstrated leadership, collaboration, or strong communication. This could be in school projects, sports teams, or community initiatives.
Crafting a Compelling Cover Letter
A cover letter is your chance to expand on your resume and express your genuine enthusiasm for Lockheed Martin and the specific internship.
Tailor It: Do not send a generic cover letter. Research the specific Lockheed Martin facility or project you're interested in, and mention why you're drawn to their work.
Show Your Passion: Clearly articulate your interest in STEM and how this internship aligns with your career aspirations.
Connect Your Experiences: Briefly explain how your academic background and extracurricular activities have prepared you for the challenges of a Lockheed Martin internship.
Be Concise: Keep it to one page, well-structured, and error-free.
Gathering Recommendations (If Applicable)
While not always required for high school internships, a strong letter of recommendation from a science, math, or computer science teacher who can speak to your abilities and character can significantly bolster your application. If given the option, choose someone who knows you well and can provide specific examples of your skills and dedication.
Step 3: Navigating the Application Portal – Your Digital Gateway ️
Once your materials are ready, it's time to hit the virtual road and find those internship openings!
Finding High School Internships on the Lockheed Martin Careers Site
Lockheed Martin's official careers website is your primary resource.
Visit the "Students and Early Careers" Section: Navigate to
lockheedmartin.com/careers Search for High School Programs: Look specifically for "High School Internships" or "High School Programs." You might need to use keywords like "high school intern" in the job search bar.
Filter by Location: As the internship typically requires you to be within commutable distance, filter by locations relevant to you (e.g., Denver, Sunnyvale, etc.).
Read Job Descriptions Carefully: Each internship posting will have specific requirements and desired qualifications. Ensure you meet them before applying. Pay close attention to the application deadline; applications for summer internships often close around January. For example, applications for Summer 2025 were under review, with notifications by the end of January.
The Online Application Process
Once you find a suitable opening, the application process generally involves:
Creating an Account: You'll likely need to create a profile on the Lockheed Martin careers portal.
Filling Out Information: This will include personal details, academic history, and potentially a section to list your extracurriculars and skills.
Uploading Documents: Upload your resume and cover letter. If recommendations are requested, follow the instructions for submission.
Answering Supplemental Questions: Some applications may include questions about your interest in Lockheed Martin, your career goals, or specific technical skills. Take your time and provide thoughtful answers.
Pro Tip: Double-check everything before submitting! Typos or incomplete information can detract from your application.
Step 4: Awaiting and Acing the Interview – Making Your Impression
After submitting your application, patience is key. If your profile stands out, you'll be invited for an interview.
The Waiting Game
Lockheed Martin receives a large volume of applications, so it can take some time to hear back. They typically notify all candidates, whether selected or not.
Preparing for Your Interview
If you get an interview invitation, congratulations! This is your chance to demonstrate your personality, problem-solving skills, and genuine interest.
Research the Company and Role: Understand Lockheed Martin's mission, values, recent projects, and the specific work of the department you'd be interning with.
Practice the STAR Method: Many companies, including Lockheed Martin, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral interview questions. Practice answering questions like "Tell me about a time you faced a challenge and how you overcame it" using this structure.
Prepare Questions for Them: Asking thoughtful questions shows your engagement and interest. Inquire about the team culture, typical projects for interns, or opportunities for learning and growth.
Dress Professionally: Even for a virtual interview, present yourself professionally.
Technical Questions: Be prepared to discuss your STEM projects and experiences. Interviewers want to gauge your foundational knowledge and enthusiasm for learning.
The Interview Itself
Interviews may be virtual or in-person. You might speak with recruiters, hiring managers, and even team members. Be yourself, be enthusiastic, and clearly articulate your thoughts. Don't be afraid to ask for clarification if you don't understand a question. Remember, the point of an internship is to learn and gain experience, so they aren't expecting you to know everything.
Step 5: Post-Interview and Beyond – Seizing the Opportunity
The final stretch! After the interview, it's important to follow up and remain positive.
Sending a Thank You Note
Always send a concise and polite thank-you email to your interviewers within 24 hours. Reiterate your interest in the position and briefly mention something specific you discussed during the interview to show you were engaged.
The Offer and Onboarding
If you receive an offer, congratulations! Carefully review the terms, including start date, compensation, and any necessary paperwork. Be aware that background checks and potential security clearances can take time.
Making the Most of Your Internship
Once you're at Lockheed Martin, embrace every moment!
Be Proactive: Ask questions, seek out new learning opportunities, and offer to help your team.
Network: Connect with other interns, mentors, and professionals within the company. These connections can be invaluable for your future career.
Learn and Grow: Take advantage of all the training, workshops, and mentorship opportunities provided.
Document Your Experience: Keep a record of your projects, accomplishments, and skills gained. This will be helpful for future applications and your resume.
Applying for a Lockheed Martin high school internship is a competitive but incredibly rewarding process. By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to put your best foot forward and potentially launch a truly impactful career in STEM!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to find Lockheed Martin high school internship opportunities?
You can find Lockheed Martin high school internship opportunities on their official careers website (
How to make my resume stand out for a Lockheed Martin high school internship?
Highlight your academic achievements, relevant STEM coursework, and active participation in extracurricular activities like robotics clubs, coding projects, or science competitions. Emphasize any leadership or teamwork experience.
How to prepare for a Lockheed Martin high school internship interview?
Research Lockheed Martin, understand the specific role, and practice answering behavioral questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Be ready to discuss your STEM projects and ask thoughtful questions.
How to write a compelling cover letter for Lockheed Martin?
Tailor your cover letter to the specific internship and Lockheed Martin's mission. Express your genuine passion for STEM and explain how your experiences align with the company's work. Keep it concise and error-free.
How to demonstrate passion for STEM during the application process?
Showcase your involvement in STEM clubs, personal projects (coding, engineering, science experiments), participation in STEM competitions (like Lockheed Martin's Code Quest or CYBERQUEST), and relevant coursework.
How to know if I'm eligible for a Lockheed Martin high school internship?
You typically need to be at least 16 years old by the internship start date, currently enrolled in high school (excluding graduating seniors), live within commutable distance to a facility, and demonstrate a strong interest in STEM.
How to increase my chances of getting a Lockheed Martin high school internship?
Maintain a strong academic record, actively participate in STEM-related extracurriculars, tailor your application materials, thoroughly prepare for the interview, and network if possible.
How to know the application deadlines for Lockheed Martin high school internships?
Application deadlines vary, but for summer internships, they often close around January. Always check the specific job posting on the Lockheed Martin careers website for the exact date.
How to get a security clearance for a Lockheed Martin internship?
For many roles at Lockheed Martin, especially those involving sensitive information, a security clearance may be required. If an offer is extended, Lockheed Martin will guide you through the security clearance process, which typically involves background checks and can take time.
How to follow up after a Lockheed Martin internship interview?
Send a thank-you email to your interviewers within 24 hours of your interview. Express your gratitude, reiterate your interest in the position, and briefly mention something specific you discussed.
