MDTA, MARYLAND HIGHER EDUCATION COMMISSION LAUNCH INTERNSHIP PROGRAM FOR KEY BRIDGE REBUILD PROJECT
Students from Four Major Maryland Universities to Gain Experience in Engineering, Development and Public Sector Fields

BALTIMORE (May 12, 2025) – The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) is partnering with the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) to launch the Key Bridge Rebuild Internship Program, creating new paid public sector opportunities for Maryland college students. The program builds on the Authority’s commitment to rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge while developing the future workforce in the engineering and infrastructure development fields. 

“The goal of the internship program is to strengthen collaboration skills among interns, foster community engagement and help students build professional networks that will serve them well in their future careers,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary and MDTA Chairman Paul J. Wiedefeld. “We look forward to working with these young professionals as we rebuild this vital infrastructure.”

The program will allow undergraduate and graduate students from the University of Maryland College Park, Morgan State University, University of Maryland Baltimore County and Johns Hopkins University to work with professional engineers, public-sector leaders and stakeholders on this landmark project. 

“This unique opportunity allows Maryland’s higher education institutions to join in the historic efforts to rebuild and strengthen the resiliency of the new Key Bridge,” said Dr. Sanjay Rai, Secretary of the Maryland Higher Education Commission. “By providing real-world experience in their fields of study, we enhance the students’ educational journey, promote innovation, and contribute insights and assistance to the project.”

More than 80 university students majoring in civil engineering, mechanical engineering, environmental science, computer science, information systems, business technology and communications applied for the program. From these applicants, 10 selected students will participate in the inaugural session this summer. The MDTA anticipates continuing internship opportunities as construction activities progress. 

The program will run throughout the duration of the Key Bridge Rebuild. This summer’s session will take place from early June through late August. Hired as temporary state employees, interns will initially focus on project management with some involvement in environmental, construction management and community outreach activities. 

As the program progresses, MDTA will gather participant feedback to ensure the program aligns with project objectives and MHEC goals. 

For details on the rebuild efforts, visit KeyBridgeRebuild.com. 

For more information on MHEC, visit mhec.maryland.gov.