96th Test Systems Squadron

This SkillBridge internship provides transitioning military members with hands-on experience in defense program management within the Air Force's premier test and evaluation organization. Participants will work alongside experienced program managers while contributing to real-world test programs supporting critical DoD missions.Learning ObjectivesGain practical experience in defense program management principles and methodologiesDevelop proficiency in DoD acquisition processes and test & evaluation proceduresBuild skills in stakeholder management, risk assessment, and resource planningLearn industry-standard program management tools and techniquesUnderstand the integration between military requirements and contractor capabilitiesKey ActivitiesWeeks 1-6: Foundation & OrientationProgram management fundamentals training96th Test Wing mission and organizational overviewShadowing experienced program managersIntroduction to current test programs and stakeholdersWeeks 7-14: Hands-On ExperienceAssist with program planning and schedule developmentSupport budget tracking and resource allocation activitiesParticipate in stakeholder meetings and program reviewsContribute to risk assessment and mitigation planningWeeks 15-22: Advanced ResponsibilitiesLead specific program workstreams under supervisionPrepare briefings and status reports for leadershipSupport test execution and data analysis activitiesDevelop transition plan and career roadmapOutcomesUpon completion, participants will have acquired practical program management experience, established professional networks within the defense industry, and developed skills directly transferable to civilian program management roles in aerospace, defense contracting, or related technical fields.

ABOUT THE JOB

The Program Manager at the 96th Test Wing serves as a key leader in managing complex test and evaluation programs supporting Department of Defense developmental and operational testing initiatives. This position requires oversight of multi-million-dollar programs, coordination with diverse stakeholders, and ensuring mission success in a dynamic test environment.Key ResponsibilitiesProgram Planning & Execution : Develop, manage, and execute comprehensive test programs from initial planning through final reportingStakeholder Management : Coordinate with program offices, contractors, test organizations, and senior leadership across DoDResource Management : Oversee program budgets, personnel allocation, and equipment utilization to ensure efficient operationsRisk Management : Identify, assess, and mitigate program risks while maintaining safety and security standardsSchedule Management : Develop and maintain master schedules, ensuring milestone achievement and timely deliverablesTechnical Oversight : Provide technical guidance on test methodologies, data collection, and analysis proceduresReporting : Prepare executive briefings, status reports, and program documentation for leadership and customersCompliance : Ensure adherence to DoD regulations, safety protocols, and quality standards

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop, manage, and execute comprehensive test programs from initial planning through final reporting
• Coordinate with program offices, contractors, test organizations, and senior leadership across DoD
• Oversee program budgets, personnel allocation, and equipment utilization to ensure efficient operations
• Identify, assess, and mitigate program risks while maintaining safety and security standards
• Develop and maintain master schedules, ensuring milestone achievement and timely deliverables
• Provide technical guidance on test methodologies, data collection, and analysis procedures
• Prepare executive briefings, status reports, and program documentation for leadership and customers
• Ensure adherence to DoD regulations, safety protocols, and quality standards

QUALIFICATIONS

• Gain practical experience in defense program management principles and methodologies
• Develop proficiency in DoD acquisition processes and test & evaluation procedures
• Build skills in stakeholder management, risk assessment, and resource planning
• Learn industry-standard program management tools and techniques
• Understand the integration between military requirements and contractor capabilities

ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY

N/A

BENEFITS

• Acquired practical program management experience
• Established professional networks within the defense industry
• Developed skills directly transferable to civilian program management roles in aerospace, defense contracting, or related technical fields

OTHER

N/A