Alexandria J.
My name is Alexandria Johnson, I am a recent graduate of Virginia Tech with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. I will continue at Virginia Tech this fall to pursue a master’s degree in civil engineering focusing on transportation engineering. Within transportation engineering my goal is to research roadway infrastructure and its relation to climate change.
As a STIPDG intern, I worked for the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) at Turner Fairbank Highway Research Center in McLean, VA. As an intern in the concrete laboratory, my role was to conduct concrete Migration Testing using the NT Build 492 and AASHTO T-357 methods and make recommendations on how to improve the AASHTO T-357 test method. While working, I have learned about the cradle to gate process for materials, cement chemistry, observed concrete mixes, made my own concrete cylinders, and more. This internship has been instrumental as I work towards my career aspirations of becoming a licensed civil engineer working on climate resiliency research and policy regarding roadway infrastructure. The STIPDG internship program has been a lifechanging opportunity and I am so grateful for the opportunity to learn and observe under so many great minds!
Djakaridja B.
Hello! My name is Djakaridja B., and I am a Program Analyst Pathways Intern at the FHWA Missouri Division Office. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Urban Policy and Planning from the University of North Texas in 2022, and I am now pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Administration at the University of Texas Arlington. I was exposed to a range of disciplines, including planning, grant management, and program management analysis, in order to develop the essential abilities to become a transportation specialist. My goal will be to apply the knowledge and skills that I gained from my Pathways internship and Public Administration program in order to make our transportation system safer and more reliable.
I interned with the Federal Highway Administration Office in Madison, Wisconsin, in the summer of 2023 as part of the STIPDG program. During my STIPDG internship, I had a lot of incredible learning experiences. I reviewed project documentation to ensure compliance with title 23 code covering transportation. My personal project during this STIPDG internship was the closure and redevelopment of Loomis Road Park & Ride in Greenfield, Milwaukee County, Wisconsin. The issue was challenging because federal funds were used to construct the park and ride. After conducting research, site visits, and meetings with Wisconsin DOT staff, I proposed a solution based on 23 federal regulations and got approval to close the case. This internship helped me expand my network of transportation professionals. I took advantage of this opportunity to pursue my dream and get involved with real-world public issues.
Tanesha G.
STIPDG was an unforgettable experience that played a significant role in my professional and personal growth. 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. The skills I gained from this experience are foundational—they’re life skills that I’m already applying in my senior year of college. I’m grateful to have been part of STIPDG and to have joined such a supportive and dynamic team!
Jamauri B.
During my summer with STIPDG, I worked in the DOT’s Federal Highway Administration, Office of Infrastructure. I served as an Information Technology and Services intern supporting the Bridge and Tunnel Safety Inspection team at the DOT’s HQ in Washington, DC. 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!
Frances V.
“I’m excited to finally share that I recently completed an internship with the FMCSA Department of Transportation in the Safety Investigation Department! 🎉 My hands-on experience in safety investigations and regulatory compliance was incredibly valuable”