Program Summary
The NORAD and USNORTHCOM Volunteer Student Internship Program (N&NC VSIP) is part of a larger effort by NORAD and USNORTHCOM to help cultivate future generations of Defense and Security practitioners. N&NC VSIP provides students exposure to NORAD and USNORTHCOM missions and responsibilities, while working alongside current military and civilian professionals dedicated to the defense of North America.
Participants in N&NC VSIP gain valuable hands-on experience related to their education endeavors while working in a joint, interagency and international environment at NORAD and USNORTHCOM. Students may potentially earn academic credit for the work performed and those that qualify may receive a Department of Defense SECRET clearance.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for consideration applicants must meet all four of the following criteria:
· Student must be enrolled, at least half-time, in any accredited graduate educational institution degree program OR be enrolled in a Reserve Officer Training Corp (ROTC) program or service academy
· Student must obtain and maintain a GPA of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
· Student MUST be available to work a minimum of 9 weeks in the program (work schedules vary)
· Student must be a U.S. Citizen and must be able to successfully complete a background security investigation
Program Time Lines
The Volunteer Internship Program is an annual program. As such, there are specific deadlines for submitting applications. The application window for internship appointment will open twice a year.
Applications will be accepted:
- August – November; interns begin duties the following June
- April - July; interns will begin duties the following January
- In all instances, we will keep each resume on file for (12) months
- The first cycle of interns will on board in June of 2018
Application Packages Require:
- A current resume, no special format required. Please include anticipated
graduation date.
- A cover letter identifying student as an applicant for the Volunteer Student Intern Program. The letter should also contain each student’s career area of interest.
- Unofficial transcripts clearly showing grades/GPA.
- Letter from student’s Educational Institution granting permission to participate
- Educational Institution Acknowledgement Letter
To apply, email the above documents to the NORAD and USNORTHCOM VSIP Administrative section: n-nc.peterson.n-ncj7.mbx.j72-internship-omb@mail.mil .
This organizational e-mail account is monitored by the N&NC VSIP team and is your primary method of corresponding with NORAD and USNORHCOM regarding the VSIP application process.
Points of Contact and Useful Websites
USNORTHCOM Website
http://www.northcom.mil/
NORAD Website
http://www.norad.mil/
NORAD and USNORTHCOM VSIP Team
n-nc.peterson.n-ncj7.mbx.j72-internship-omb@mail.mil
lauren.a.schindler.ctr@mail.mil
Phone: 719-554-6357
It should be noted that, under 5 U.S.C 3111, a student volunteer is not a Federal employee for any purposes other than injury compensation and law related to the Tort Claims Act. Student participation in the program is on a voluntary basis, and there is no remuneration or other employee benefits provided. NORAD & USNORTHCOM do not provide housing assistance or support. Volunteer service is not credible for leave or any other employee benefits or monetary compensation.