Are You in 9th, 10th or 11th Grade and Interested in Science or Engineering?
Apply for a Summer Apprenticeship in Science or Engineering!
Through the ASE Program, 9-11th grade students work with scientists and engineers for eight weeks, full time during the summer.
ASE features include:
- Interview Skills Workshops for all applicants
- An orientation session for students and parents
- Local high school teachers who serve as liaisons between students and mentors
- Two conferences for students during the summer
- ASE certification sent to schools so that the experience appears on student transcripts
ASE Overview
Pre-professional experience in science and engineering careers
Many students with the potential to excel in science or engineering have only a general idea of what a career in research or engineering entails, and little or no contact with adults doing this work in the community.
The Apprenticeships in Science and Engineering (ASE) Program provides high-school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors with an intensive experience in a professional, scientific, or engineering environment. ASE provides the opportunity to explore interests and to make informed educational and career decisions. Positions are available throughout Oregon and southwest Washington.
For eight weeks during the summer, interns participate in the program for the equivalent of full-time employment at their mentors’ workplaces. Some students work on special projects designed to be completed in the eight weeks; others contribute to the ongoing work of the mentors.
The impact of the ASE Program goes far beyond the eight weeks in the internship. Some interns are credited as authors or co-authors of professional publications or products used by their mentors. Many students are hired to work with their mentors in following years. All have a clearer and more specific understanding of the academic preparation they will need.
Most interns receive school credit for successfully completing the internship and participating in the conferences (see below). Generally, schools award one to three credits of elective science.
In addition to the eight weeks at the mentor's site, interns participate in other activities designed to broaden their experience of science, math and technology.
The Midsummer Conference is one day of workshops and seminars led by scientists and engineers speaking on topics as varied as DNA sequencing, hematology, computer programming, design, and manufacturing processes. Educators speak about the college search and financing process.
The ASE Symposium at summer's end gives interns the opportunity to share their work with other interns, their mentors, teachers, parents, and friends. Students report on their projects through oral presentations and poster exhibits. Many students later submit their work for science fairs and student research competitions.
Please contact us if you have any questions or would like to be added to our email/mailing list.