Empowering Future Leaders
Through
STIPDG
STIPDG is a federally funded program by the U.S. Department of Transportation – FHWA. The program is Administrated and operated by GMG Management Consulting Inc.
STIPDG Overview
STIPDG is open to all qualified candidates without regard to their race, gender, color, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic prohibited by state or local law. An important focus of the program is providing opportunities to qualified candidates from groups that have been underrepresented in transportation such as women, persons with disabilities, as well as other diverse groups.
Why STIPDG
A Career in the Federal Government.
Gain hands-on experience in various government functions, allowing them to understand the operations and decision-making processes within federal agencies.
Mentorship and Professional Networking
Paired with experienced mentors within USDOT who guide them throughout the program.The mentorship helps interns build valuable professional networks and understand career pathways in the transportation sector.
Career Advancement
The program is specifically designed to increase diverse representation in USDOT’s workforce, helping students from underrepresented groups enter public service and transportation fields.
Length of the Internship
The STIPDG program lasts 10 weeks and allows interns to enhance their skills through various experiences, including field trips, workshops, conferences, and mentorship from USDOT professionals. Interns also receive a stipend, furnished housing, and round-trip travel to their placement location.
Internship Accommodation
Interns receive a competitive stipend, fully furnished housing, and round-trip travel to and from their placement location, ensuring that the program is accessible to students from various socioeconomic backgrounds. Applicants will be contacted for interviews in February – March.
Number of Applications
Students of Color
Application Selections
Selections will begin in late February, and all applicants will be notified of their status via email no later than May 1st. If you are selected to participate, you must reply by email to accept the offer within a specified number of business days. Failure to do so will result in the offer being extended to other qualified applicants.
How to Apply
Guide Here.
To receive consideration, interested candidates must complete the application and submit all required information and documents. Registration Period for STIPDG 2025 begins October 30th, 2024.
Please Carefully Read Steps 01 and 02 to Identify Application Introductions and Required Documentation(s) and Proceed to Complete the Application.
Basic Requirements for the Internship
Main steps
1. Be a U.S. Citizen.
This is a US Federal Government Internship at the Department of Transportation - Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Thus, the applicant must be a US Citizen to apply.
2. Be enrolled in degree program
Be currently enrolled in degree-granting programs of study at accredited U.S. institutions of higher education recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Maintain 3.0 or better GPA.
3. Fillout the Application
Be available and able to participate through the duration of the 10-week program.
Things You Need to Apply
4. Transcript/Grade Record/Report
Copy of the most recent Transcript/Grade Record/Report. Undergraduate applicants must be sophomores, juniors, or seniors for the upcoming Fall Semester. When uploading the file, please name the file: Your First Name_Last Name_Transcript_Year
5. Your Resume
A one-page resume reflecting work experience (including paid and unpaid), volunteerism, awards, leadership, and extra-curricular activities. When uploading please name this file as: Your First Name_Last Name_Resume
6. One Written Reference
At least one written reference (with comments) from a department chair, professor, advisor, or from the employer. When uploading please name the file as, Your First Name_Last Name_ Reference
7. A Writing Sample
A one-page, double-spaced, minimum 12-point, typed essay: When uploading, please name the file as: Your First Name_Last Name_ Writing Sample
- For undergraduate students, reflect on student(s) transportation interests and describe how participation in STIPDG will enhance academic and career plans/goals.
- For masters’ students, submit a writing sample (not to exceed two pages) representing your educational and career plans and goals.
- For law students, submit a legal writing sample (not to exceed five pages).
Q&A
I'm a senior and will graduate in the Spring. Can I still participate?
You may participate only if you've applied to graduate school for the upcoming Fall Semester and can provide proof of enrollment (not just proof of application) if you receive a STIPDG offer.
What are the admission requirements for Law Students?
Law students must be entering their second or third year of law school in the Fall Semester following the summer of the program.
I have been a STIPDG intern before. Am I eligible to participate again?
Yes, you may apply again so long as you still meet the eligibility requirements. Please note that previous participation does not mean you’ll get preferential treatment in the selection process.
If selected, when will I be notified?
Selections will begin in late February. All applicants will be notified of their status in writing via email no later than May 1st. If you are selected to participate, you'll have a set number of business days to reply by e-mail to the offer before the offer is extended to other qualified applicants.
How is my internship placement determined?
Assignment is based on numerous factors, the most important being the applicant's major, preference for a particular U.S. DOT Operating Administration and interest area and geographic preference, to an extent. STIPDG program officials and mentors attempt to match these preferences with available assignments based upon further consideration of the applicant's skills, background (like courses taken in a particular area of study), and interests. Submitting complete, accurate and detailed Application Documents will ensure the review and rating of your application.
May I choose to secure my own housing and have the STIPDG program reimburse me for my housing costs?
You may secure your own housing. However, you will not be reimbursed nor provided a housing allowance by GMG, U.S. DOT, FHWA, or sponsoring offices.
Testimonials
Alexandria J.
The STIPDG internship program has been a life-changing opportunity, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to learn and observe under so many great minds!
Jamauri B.
I spent my 10 weeks creating automation software to support bridge and tunnel inspections all across the country. I'm super grateful to DOT staff for giving me this opportunity to step into public service!
Djakaridja B.
The program emphasized the importance of creating a safe space where people enjoy their work and where diversity is embraced, which is something I find extremely valuable in any job.
Get to know us,
Let's Apply!
Selections will begin in late February. All applicants will be notified of their status in writing via email no later than May 1st. If you are selected to participate, you’ll have a set number of business days to reply by e-mail to the offer before the offer is extended to other qualified applicants.