Why a Minnesota SCALE internship? 

Minnesota SCALE provides paid internships for you to get hands on training inside cutting edge technology companies at the heart of semiconductors and defense microelectronics. These internships are open to you if you’re an undergraduate or graduate student enrolled at one of the three participating Minnesota universities, registered with the national SCALE program as a participating student, and interested in trying out one of the most in-demand fields in technology — and one of the least crowded with applicants.  

Here’s what you will get through an internship: 

• You get paid. Competitive, program-supported wages so you can focus on the work, not the finances. 

• Real work, real employers. You’ll work alongside engineers and researchers at leading semiconductor and defense microelectronics companies in the Twin Cities — employers who are actively building their next generation of talent. 

• A field with staying power. Microelectronics is at the center of U.S. national security and domestic technology manufacturing. The demand for skilled graduates is outpacing supply — and verified work experience in this field carries real weight. 

• Your network, before graduation. Many MN SCALE industry partners actively refer strong participants for full-time roles. You’ll also connect with students and employers across the national SCALE network through in-person and virtual events. 

• Mentorship built in. Every internship comes with mentorship from experienced industry professionals — and the kind of professional development that sets you apart from candidates with only academic credentials. 

• It works around your schedule. MN SCALE is designed to work alongside your coursework and research — not replace it. Minimum 10 hours per week, with options up to full-time. 

Not ready for an internship yet? MN SCALE also offers mentoring, site visits, and other ways to explore the field and build connections before you take that step. 

Are internships paid? 

Yes. Minnesota SCALE reimburses host companies for internship wages and approved tools and materials costs. Rates start at $30 per hour and increase based on experience and educational level. Minnesota SCALE also provides a transportation stipend to cover approved commute costs.

How long is an internship? 

Internships typically last 12 weeks. By mutual agreement between you and the host company, some may extend, subject to continued availability of funding. 

Fall 2026 internships are scheduled to begin September 21, 2026, and end December 11, 2026. The Spring 2027 internship period is anticipated to run February through May 2027, and the Summer 2027 internship period is anticipated to run June through August 2027. 

How many hours per week are required? 

You’ll need to commit to a minimum of 10 hours per week, including two days on site at the host company. Some internships offer up to 40 hours per week of paid experience. 

How can I learn more about internships? 

For the latest on internship openings and how to apply, reach out to the Minnesota National Security Ecosystem at MNSCALE@natsecmn.org, or contact your university’s MN SCALE point of contact. 

• University of Minnesota Twin Cities: Claire Dietz at cdietz@umn.edu  

• University of St. Thomas: Dr. Hassan Salamy at hsalamy@stthomas.edu 

• Metropolitan State University: Dr. Sena Houeto at sena.houeto@metrostate.edu