MDTA Partnership with Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC)
The MDTA has partnered with the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) to create the Key Bridge Rebuild Internship Program, an annual summer paid public sector opportunity for Maryland college students. The program builds on the MDTA’s commitment to rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge while developing the future workforce in the engineering and infrastructure development fields.
The program runs from June through August and welcomed the first cohort in summer 2025. The internship provides hands-on and in-field experiences for students to work alongside Maryland’s industry professionals.
“This program does more than introduce students to careers in transportation, it places them directly in the field, where they gain meaningful, hands-on experience on a critical infrastructure project. Students gain professional skills, collaborate with industry professionals, foster community engagement, and build networks that position them for successful careers.”
Bruce Garner, MDTA Executive Director
Interested in applying?
Applications for Summer 2027 will open in Winter 2026.
Who can apply?
Undergraduate and graduate students currently enrolled at
- University of Maryland College Park
- Morgan State University
- University of Maryland Baltimore County
- Johns Hopkins University
Majors ranging from Civil/Transportation/Traffic/Mechanical/Agricultural Engineering, Geographic Information Systems, Biology, Environmental Science/Policy/Earth Science/Maine and Coastal Science, Water Resources/Hydrology, Communications
What our interns have to say
Chloe McDowell
Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering
Morgan State University
“I enjoy heading out to the field and seeing the progress made on the project in real time. I’ve learned so much about the construction process and gained valuable experience and insight by working with the various types of important people on this site.”
Elen Hona
Bachelor’s in Urban Transportation
Morgan State University
“Being part of the Key Bridge Rebuild team has shown me that engineering is as much about collaboration and problem-solving as it is about technical knowledge. It’s been a valuable experience to learn from a project that will make a meaningful difference. Every day has been an opportunity to connect what I’ve learned in the classroom with real-world engineering. “
Megan Schumacher
Master’s of Science in Geography and Environmental Systems
UMBC
“I have learned a lot about the many different ways this project takes into account the environment, from the bubble curtains to marine mammal observation to the numerous permits and plans developed to protect the environment.”
James Keller
Bachelor’s in Environmental Science and Geography, Minor Biological Sciences
UMBC
“This internship has been a great way to get exposed to new ideas and challenges. Construction requires cooperation from many different fields and people and it is essential to get a feel for all of them!”
Bilal Faizullah
Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering
UMBC
“I wanted to be a Key Bridge Rebuild intern to experience this nationally significant project firsthand. I am proud to say I have learned a lot regarding the teamwork, coordination, and impact of a project such as this.”
Isheanesu Mushonga
Master’s of Science in Civil Engineering
Johns Hopkins University
“I get an opportunity to learn and connect from some of the best engineers and industry leaders whilst being exposed to various disciplines like environmental, project and construction management, communication, geotechnical engineering and so much more.”
Katelyn Prasad
Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering
UMBC
“I wanted to be part of the Key Bridge Rebuild Internship Program to learn how engineers play an instrumental role in the planning and development of large-scale projects. I experienced firsthand the importance of teamwork, communication, and responsibility instilled into every individual working on this rebuild.”
Rena Crockett
Bachelor’s of Mechanical Engineering, Minor in Nuclear
University of Maryland College Park
“It’s an absolute honor to be part of the Key Bridge Rebuild Project. I’m grateful to be surrounded by such talented and dedicated team members whose professionalism and commitment are evident every day. The community and I are incredibly proud to witness the hard work of the crews that are on site and bringing this meaningful structure to life.”
Ayobami Dunmoye
PhD. Of Sustainable & Resilient Infrastructure Engineering
Morgan State University
“I wanted to be a Key Bridge Rebuild intern because it provided a unique opportunity to be part of one of the nation’s most significant bridge projects while learning from the professionals on the project. My favorite part is how everyone including the Project Engineers, and inspectors are always eager to teach, answer questions and promote impactful discussions. So far, I have developed valuable knowledge in marine bridge construction including pile installation logs, construction and contract management, environmental protection, safety among others.”
Caleb Mincey
Bachelor’s of Civil Engineering
Morgan State University
“This internship has given me the opportunity to learn firsthand about bridge engineering, read project plans, and visit the Key Bridge site. Being part of a project that will shape the future of Maryland transportation has been an incredible experience.”
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