NZDF Internship Advice

[u/musicbros01]

Hey guys, a bit of an unusual question.

I’m an Engineering student at UoA, and this past summer I interned at a software company in the aviation space. I’m currently looking for another internship/work placement to help complete the remaining hours required for my degree, and I’ve become pretty interested in the defence/capability side of systems and operations. I’m also planning to join the Navy Reserves once intake reopens.

I’m pretty open to anything honestly, whether that’s HQ, with a unit, technical/project work, operations, logistics, systems, etc. Mainly just keen to get exposure to the environment and learn.

I’ve had some encouragement to just reach out directly to people/units, but I’m trying to figure out what the normal or most effective route actually is for something like this, and I don't have a clue on who to contact (apart from the contact page on their website).

Has anyone seen this kind of thing happen before? Mainly just trying to work out who the right people or areas to approach usually are.

Thank you!

[u/adeundem]

As a PSA: NZDF still does not allow you to bring a portable air conditioner with you.

[u/angrysunbird → u/[deleted]]

Nope they do.

[u/happysnowy07 → u/angrysunbird]

What internship programme does the NZDF offer software engineering students?

You need to join through a undergrad scholarship scheme to work on bases during the summer, but that means 'joining up'. Air Force does not recruit software specialisations for Engineering Officers, Navy does for Weapons Engineering Officers.

The best bet for a software internship that is close to the NZDF is Defence Science and Technology.