PATUXENT RIVER, Md. — The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Security Cooperation Office (SSCO) Junior Personnel Development Program (JPDP) offers undergraduate and graduate students an opportunity to gain hands-on experience while earning their degrees, networking with professionals, and building skills for future employment.
“The mission of the SSCO is to advance U.S. strategic objectives by establishing and growing key allied partnerships through security cooperation efforts across the Naval Aviation Enterprise (NAE),” said Scott Wiener, NAVAIR SSCO director. “The SSCO Junior Personnel Development Program is critical to this mission by developing the individuals who will lead future NAE security cooperation efforts.”
Launched in 2015, the JPDP seeks to inspire interns to pursue careers within NAVAIR’s international programs or other positions after graduation. The program immerses students in projects supporting Navy and Marine Corps international partner aircraft and weapons systems, providing real-world exposure to security cooperation efforts.
Program Details and Structure
The JPDP is a multi-year internship designed to gradually integrate participants into NAVAIR’s international programs. During the first year, interns are introduced to the SSCO mission and program offices they support, including tasks such as obtaining government identification cards, securing security clearances, and participating in interactive training sessions.
“The first year is all about maximizing the intern’s exposure to SSCO, NAVAIR, and the Naval Aviation Enterprise,” explained Tina Newton, SSCO personnel development coordinator. “In subsequent years, they are assigned directly to program management or analyst tracks within Program Management Activities (PMAs), where they contribute to international efforts.”
The program aims to create a seamless transition from internship to full-time federal employment. Participants are assigned specific projects within program offices, allowing them to develop a comprehensive understanding of processes and gain valuable skills.
Eligibility and Application Process
Applicants must be enrolled or accepted at an accredited institution, ideally as rising sophomores or juniors, and pursuing degrees in fields such as finance, business, administration, government and politics, or international relations. Interns must commit to working 40 hours per week during the summer.
Participants who successfully meet program requirements may qualify for full-time employment with SSCO upon graduation. The program boasts a retention rate of 75%, with 35 of the 46 interns who joined federal civilian service since 2015 remaining within the SSCO community.
Applications for the 2024 JPDP are due by November 30, 2024. Students can apply through the following link: SSCO JPDP Application.
About SSCO
The SSCO’s mission is to strengthen U.S. strategic objectives by supporting allied and international partners in acquiring, training, and sustaining U.S. defense systems. The office integrates acquisition and lifecycle sustainment for foreign military sales programs, contributing to the global reach of the Naval Aviation Enterprise.
For students looking to launch a career in international defense collaboration, the JPDP offers a robust platform to gain experience, build professional networks, and contribute to national security efforts.
