This summer, the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (JPEO-CBRND) hosted a 10-week internship at Aberdeen Proving Ground where students from Historically Black Colleges & Universities and Minority Serving Institutions (HBCU/MI) immersed themselves in cutting-edge STEM research and mentorship. Supported by the War Department’s (DOW) Under Secretary of War for Research & Engineering (OUSW(R&E)) and administered by the Department of the Army, the program offered hands-on experience in DOW research facilities and program offices, bridging academic learning with real-world defense innovation. These future scientists and engineers gained invaluable insight into DOW operations while contributing to mission-relevant projects, strengthening the pipeline of qualified talent in support of national security.
The students explored topics such as applying agile processes to advance Soldier capability and the benefits of using modern data visualization to enhance decision making. Their contributions provided insights on how JPEO-CBRND and the DOW can apply emerging concepts to improve service to the warfighter. Internship programs like these play a critical role in educating young science, technology, engineering and math students about how their skills can enhance national defense missions while exploring future career opportunities and experiencing the professional culture of the federal government.
JPEO-CBRND hosted five interns from schools in five different states and territories: Emmanuel Kajopelaye (University of Texas at Arlington), Jordan Williams (Norfolk State University), and Ariana Repollet Santiago (Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico Orlando) interned for the Joint Project Manager for CBRN Sensors; Jaydhen Johnson (Moorehouse University) interned with the Chief Data Office (CDO); and Matthew Wiggins (North Carolina A&T University) interned for the Assistant JPEO for Strategic Engagement’s International Programs office.
Chuck Nuce, director of International Programs and one of the mentors for this summer’s internship program, touted the value of the experience for both the students and the organization.
“International Programs has utilized the intern program for several years and sees it as a useful way to expose college students to the federal government and at the same time to attract new talent and build the bench for our future workforce. Our previous interns are currently federal employees or contract support to the federal government. This year’s intern, Mr. Matthew Wiggins, was especially helpful and possessed the unique skillset to assist International Programs with data strategy implementation and process improvement. His efforts directly enhanced decision-making and boosted efficiency,” said Nuce.
At the end of their program, the students shared highlights from their summer experience with Mr. Darryl Colvin, Joint Program Executive Officer (JPEO) and Ms. Nicole Kilgore, Deputy JPEO, during a Senior Leader Outbrief and completed final reports for their individual academic institutions.
Next summer, JPEO-CBRND plans to again leverage summer internship programs to continue supporting the evolving needs of the organization and nurture the next generation of DOW talent.