March 23, 2026
The CMI2 Ignite 2026 Internship focuses on meaningful work and addresses challenges beyond the classroom.
From day one, you take action: onboarding, safety training, and learning about CMI2’s mission demonstrate how innovation delivers real-world impact and supports national security. Then you begin creating.
Good news, we’ve extended the application deadline to 11:59 PM on Monday, March 30, giving you more time to apply.
This Summer, You Will Build Real Skills
Ignite offers you a hands-on experience where ideas become reality.
You will:
- design and fabricate projects using CAD and 3D modeling tools,
- work with emerging technologies like drones and robotics, apply math and logic through scenario-based missions, and
- You will contribute to outreach activities that expand STEM access across West Virginia.
Early in the program, focus on foundational skills such as design, fabrication, and problem-solving. As weeks progress, take on more complex challenges, including drone operations, robotics missions, and team-based scenario planning.
From Concepts to Competition
As your skills grow, so does the challenge.
You’ll move from individual builds to full-team projects, concluding with the design and construction of your own Battle Bot. Along the way, test, troubleshoot, and refine your work as you learn how engineering concepts become functioning systems.
The program builds toward an exciting final competition, where your team will put everything you have learned into action.
Certification and Field Training
Ignite combines technical skills and field experience.
You will earn certifications in:
- Rope Rescue
- Wilderness First Aid
- CPR/AED
- Austere Bleeding Control
Through scenario-based training, apply principles like load calculations, force distribution, mechanical advantage, and risk assessment in high-pressure environments. These experiences build knowledge, leadership, decision-making, and confidence.
More Than a Classroom Experience
During the 10-week program, you will learn from mentors and industry professionals,
- participate in weekly speaker sessions,
- explore how STEM connects to careers in engineering, public safety, healthcare, and beyond, and
- Learn how a facility like CMI2 operates and impacts the community.
Who We’re Looking For
We seek students ready to work and learn.
Ignite is a strong fit if you are:
- Curious about STEM and enjoy creating and solving problems.
- A builder, carpenter, or hands-on learner who wants to apply their skills.
- An aspiring engineer looking for real-world experience.
- A motivated doer willing to figure things out.
Whether you have experience or are new, there’s a place for you here.
Why It Matters
Access to STEM opportunities should not depend on where you live.
The mission of CMI2 Ignite is to:
- Bring hands-on STEM learning to rural and underserved communities.
- Spark curiosity and confidence in the next generation.
- Open doors to careers that students may not have considered.
As an intern, you learn and help create new opportunities for others.
More Than an Internship
By the end of the summer, you will walk away with more than experience. You will have created an opportunity for your future.
Join the Build
The Ignite 2026 Internship is your chance to learn by doing. If you are ready to build your future, we are ready for you.
