Nurturing Tomorrow’s Innovators: Lockheed Martin’s Groundbreaking Internship Initiative in Saudi Arabia
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Sept. 25, 2024 – Lockheed Martin has successfully wrapped up its 2024 Saudi Arabia Summer Internship Initiative, delivering a transformative experience that empowered Saudi interns with essential skills and profound industry knowledge. Now in its third consecutive year, the program keeps bridging the divide between academia and industry by granting students chances to implement their theoretical insights to practical challenges.
This year’s initiative welcomed exceptional students from Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University and King Saud University, who participated in pioneering projects centered around space exploration, artificial intelligence, and progressive simulation technologies. The interns collaborated closely with Lockheed Martin professionals at its Saudi Arabia office, supplemented by support from the company’s worldwide technology hubs in the United States, enhancing the initiative’s international scope.
A distinctive aspect of this year’s initiative was the students’ excursions to Lockheed Martin’s industrial partners, SAMI Al-Salam Aerospace and NAMI, a prominent additive manufacturing firm. During their trip to SAMI Al-Salam Aerospace Industries, the interns were enlightened about the latest breakthroughs in the aerospace domain. Moreover, at NAMI, they received firsthand insight into utilizing advanced 3D printing technologies within defense, security, and aerospace sectors.
Frank M. Salzgeber, Acting Deputy Governor of the Space Sector at the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission, also had the opportunity to visit the students at Lockheed Martin’s Riyadh office. During this interaction, the interns showcased their space initiative, “AI Tool for Lunar Landing Site Selection,” illustrating their contributions to vital space endeavors.
“Lockheed Martin is dedicated to nurturing innovation and cultivating the next generation of Saudi engineers and technologists. Our dedication to Saudi Arabia aligns closely with Vision 2030 as we persist in investing in advanced educational and training programs. This year’s internship initiative stands as a testament to the vast potential of Saudi youth, and we take pride in contributing to the development of the talent that will propel the Kingdom’s future achievement,” stated Brigadier General (Retired) Joseph Rank, Chief Executive of Saudi Arabia and Africa at Lockheed Martin. “We are privileged to be a trusted ally in defense and aerospace, providing the expertise and creativity needed to help fulfill the Kingdom Vision 2030’s goals.”
The initiative provided a variety of workshops, technical training sessions, and mentoring opportunities revolving around advanced technologies, space exploration, and embedded systems. The summer internship also offered students valuable chances to connect with industry professionals, enhancing their understanding of how academic knowledge translates into practical problem-solving.
“The internship at Lockheed Martin KSA has been a turning point for my career. The practical experience and the knowledge I acquired were invaluable. Observing the theories and concepts we studied come to life in real-world projects was astounding. Engaging with state-of-the-art technologies and groundbreaking solutions has expanded my understanding and skill set, providing me with a clearer perspective on my future,” expressed Jude Alsubaie, an intern from King Saud University.
Beyond the internship initiative, Lockheed Martin also supports a select group of gifted graduate students at Saudi universities, allowing them to pursue master’s and doctoral research on topics aligned with Lockheed Martin’s core programs. These efforts aim to create a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals for the defense sector, ensuring that Saudi Arabia remains at the forefront of technological innovation.
Through its internship and scholarship initiatives, Lockheed Martin reiterates its commitment to nurturing talent and driving innovation in the Kingdom. As the program wraps up, the company eagerly anticipates observing the impact of its interns’ contributions on Saudi Arabia’s technology and defense industries.
