Patti Grace Smith Fellowship 2027 | Paid Aerospace Internship for Black Undergraduates
The Patti Grace Smith Fellowship Class of 2027 offers paid aerospace internships, mentorship, and financial support for talented Black undergraduate students. Eligible candidates are invited to apply for their first meaningful work experience in the aerospace industry.
Overview
The Patti Grace Smith Fellowship celebrates and supports Black excellence in aerospace by connecting undergraduate students who have not yet entered the aerospace workforce with career opportunities and professional networks. Students interested in aviation, space, engineering, science, business, policy, journalism, and related fields are encouraged to apply.
Benefits
- Paid summer internship opportunities with leading aerospace companies, startups, and institutions.
- A cash grant of $2,500 or more to support tuition, school fees, professional development, and other academic or career-related expenses.
- Two mentors, including an experienced aerospace industry leader and an early-career professional.
- Leadership development opportunities, including the fellowship’s annual summit.
- Professional networking opportunities with industry leaders and fellow students.
- Lifelong community and alumni support from talented Black professionals pursuing careers in aerospace.
Eligibility
- Be currently enrolled in a bachelor’s degree programme or an associate’s degree programme.
- Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. permanent resident, U.S. national, qualifying refugee, or qualifying asylee, and legally permitted to work in the United States.
- Not yet be part of the aerospace workforce (the fellowship typically serves students seeking their first paid aerospace internship).
- Demonstrate strong moral character and a commitment to the mission and community of the fellowship.
How to Apply
Applicants should prepare the required application materials, which include a one-page résumé, a latest transcript, two letters of recommendation, a written essay, a multimedia essay, and an additional essay or multimedia response. Interested students can submit their materials through the official online application portal linked below.
Deadline
Applications must be submitted by 11:59:59 PM Eastern Time on Sunday, October 4, 2026. Both recommendation letters must also be submitted by the deadline.