In cooperation with the Education Initiatives Program, the N.C. Department of Transportation's Talent Management Office has developed several college programs and internships for undergraduates and graduates interested in careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (also referred to as STEM) as well as other areas in the transportation industry.

The NCDOT Internship Network's goal is to attract and retain qualified employees to meet the transportation needs of North Carolina.

Students seeking associate, bachelor's and master's degrees receive comprehensive, hands-on experience throughout NCDOT, such as the Division of Highways, Division of Motor Vehicles, Division of Public Transportation and communications office.

Cooperative Education Program

A career-oriented, professional-level program for short-term training in civil engineering, the Cooperative Education Program's primary purpose is to integrate classroom and practical experience.

HBCU/MIHE Internship

The HBCU/MIHE Internship Program is a summer program designed to provide students with hands-on, real-world experiences with various departments at NCDOT. The program is open to any student attending a historically black college or university or a minority institution of higher education.

Public Transportation Internship/Apprenticeship

The Public Transportation Internship/Apprenticeship Program provides exposure to all aspects of a transit system and allows apprentices to gain experience in managing public transportation operations. With hands-on training and experience, apprentices are better able to assess public transportation careers and to compete for jobs.

Student Volunteer Program

The Student Volunteer Program gives students wanting to pursue transportation careers the opportunity to explore fields they are interested in and to gain exposure to new areas.

Summer Engineering Assistants Program

The Summer Engineering Assistants Program is a paid summer internship in which students studying civil, environmental or biological engineering gain valuable experience that counts toward eligibility for permanent employment with NCDOT.

Transportation Engineering Associates Program

The Transportation Engineering Associates Program is an 12-15-month training and career development program designed to accomplish three major goals for entry-level civil, environmental or biological engineers.