Lockheed Martin welcomes 44 interns to tech internship in Abu Dhabi
Lockheed Martin has launched the latest edition of its summer internship programme at the Centre for Innovation and Security Solutions (CISS) in Abu Dhabi, welcoming 44 aspiring engineers, scientists and future leaders.
This years record-breaking class builds on the momentum of the 2024 summer intake of 32 participants, reflecting Lockheed Martins continued commitment to developing talent in the United Arab Emirates and shaping the next generation of innovators in defence, aerospace and advanced technology.
The 2025 summer cohort includes UAE nationals, US citizens and residents representing 16 other nationalities. Six students have travelled from the United States, Singapore, India and Italy, underscoring the UAEs emergence as a global destination for innovation. All interns were selected through a rigorous, merit-based process based on academic excellence, technical skills and leadership potential.
Gen. John Mick Nicholson, US Army (Ret.), chief executive of Lockheed Martin Middle East, said: ' Lockheed Martin is a global leader in advancing defence innovation, where high-tech meets high impact. In the UAE, we are developing future-ready talent through hands-on experience and practical learning. By working together, we are not only supporting national security, but also helping to grow the economy, strengthen STEM skills, and advance the countrys long-term capabilities.'
This summer, interns will collaborate with Lockheed Martin engineers on five advanced projects focused on space systems, artificial intelligence (AI) and simulation. Project themes include lunar base construction using 3D-printed regolith, autonomous foreign debris detection for aviation safety, modular vertical takeoff and landing uncrewed aircraft design, and immersive cockpit simulator development. Interns will also engage in systems planning and applied innovation.
Hala Majeed, manager of Lockheed Martin CISS, added: 'This is more than a training program. It is a long-term investment in the UAEs talent pipeline and sovereign capabilities. These students are turning knowledge into impact by working on real-world challenges and building the advanced skills needed to lead in critical sectors and technology domains.'
Since 2017, the CISS internship programme has graduated over 250 students. Alumni have gone on to build careers in aerospace, engineering, and public service, joining organisations such as EDGE Group, Tawazun, Mubadala, the Ministry of Defense, Dubai Police, TII, Khalifa University, AMMROC, GAL, and more than a dozen startups, tech firms, and industry partners. Lockheed Martin has also hired 14 Emirati interns into high-priority national security programs, underscoring its long-term investment in local talent.
The programme supports national goals for STEM education, workforce development, and industrial self-reliance, while deepening US-UAE collaboration on innovation, research and talent development.
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