Weapon Intern Program (WIP)

Sandia Labs created the intern program in 1998 as a formal way to transfer weapons development know-how and experience while increasing the understanding of those new to the nuclear weapons field. Currently, it is an 11-month program. Each intern completes three classroom projects that reinforce lessons; develop depth and breadth in nuclear weapons knowledge; and build networks vital to his or her career. The ideal candidate has at least a bachelor’s degree in an engineering or scientific discipline and two to five years of experience related to nuclear weapons. A Q-level security clearance is required. Participants have come from NNSA plants and sites, National Laboratories, and the U.S. military. There is always at least one missileer in the program. Curiously, the last class patch that has been observed from this program was for the class of 2018, even though classes are still being conducted. The reason for this is not known.