How the Internship Program Works
The California Science Center in Los Angeles has launched a new internship program designed to introduce high school students to aviation careers. The initiative offers hands-on experience in aircraft maintenance, flight simulation, and aviation history. Students participate in workshops led by professionals and receive mentorship from industry volunteers.
The program is structured around weekly sessions held at the museum’s aerospace exhibits. Participants learn basic flight principles, explore aircraft systems, and practice using flight simulators. Some sessions include guided tours of the museum’s aviation collection, including retired military and commercial aircraft.
Interns also meet with professionals from local aviation companies and technical schools. These conversations help students understand the range of careers available in aviation, from piloting and engineering to air traffic control and aircraft design. The program is open to students from Los Angeles Unified School District and nearby charter schools.
According to ABC7 All Good News, the internship is part of a broader effort to connect youth with STEM fields—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—through practical learning. The museum’s education team developed the curriculum in partnership with aviation educators and local employers.
Why Aviation Is Included in STEM Education
Aviation combines multiple STEM disciplines in a single field. Pilots rely on physics and mathematics to navigate flight paths. Engineers use technology and design principles to build and maintain aircraft. Air traffic controllers apply systems thinking to manage flight schedules and safety.
By introducing students to aviation early, educators aim to build interest in technical careers that support California’s transportation and aerospace sectors. The state is home to major aviation employers, including Northrop Grumman, Boeing, and SpaceX, as well as regional airports and flight schools.
The internship also helps students develop soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. These skills are essential in aviation, where coordination between pilots, ground crews, and controllers is critical to safety and efficiency.
Some students may choose to pursue further education in aviation after completing the internship. Options include vocational programs, associate degrees, and university-level aerospace engineering. The California Community Colleges system offers aviation maintenance and flight training at several campuses statewide.
What Students Learn From Mentorship
Mentorship is a central part of the internship experience. Each student is paired with a mentor who works in aviation or aerospace. Mentors share their career paths, answer questions, and offer guidance on educational choices. These relationships help students understand how to enter the field and what challenges they may face.
Mentors also provide feedback on student projects, such as flight plans or aircraft models. This helps students refine their understanding and gain confidence in their abilities. Some mentors invite students to visit their workplaces, offering a closer look at daily operations.
The mentorship model is designed to be supportive rather than competitive. Students are encouraged to ask questions and explore different roles within aviation. The goal is to help each participant find a path that matches their interests and strengths.
Mentors are recruited from local aviation companies, technical schools, and retired professionals. Many have experience working with youth and are trained in educational outreach. Their involvement adds depth to the program and connects students with real-world expertise.
How the Program Supports California’s Workforce Goals
California has identified STEM education as a priority for workforce development. Programs like the Science Center internship help prepare students for careers in industries that are vital to the state’s economy. Aviation is one of those industries, with demand for skilled workers expected to grow in the coming years.
The internship aligns with state goals by offering early exposure to technical skills and career pathways. It also supports equity by providing access to students from diverse backgrounds, including those who may not have prior experience with aviation.
By hosting the program at a public museum, the Science Center makes aviation education more accessible. Students don’t need to travel far or pay fees to participate. The museum’s location near downtown Los Angeles also makes it reachable by public transit.
The program is expected to continue through the school year, with additional sessions planned for spring and summer. Organizers hope to expand the model to other STEM fields, including robotics, environmental science, and engineering.
