Launching Leaders Internship Program
About
The Launching Leaders inclusive internship program is a paid internship program that will provide successful candidates with an opportunity to gain technical and leadership skills, grow their networks and gain invaluable work experience in the space and spatial sector.
FrontierSI believes that a diverse and inclusive workforce is necessary to drive innovation, foster creativity and guide business excellence. We acknowledge that there are several groups that face challenges entering and staying in the space and spatial sector. We see an opportunity to provide internship opportunities to a diverse range of interns, giving them a foot in the door and invaluable experience that will improve prospects for future employment.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Launching Leaders Program?
The Launching Leaders inclusive internship program is a paid internship program that provides successful candidates with an opportunity to gain technical and leadership skills, grow their networks and gain invaluable work experience in the space and spatial sector.
Who will qualify for this program?
We acknowledge that entering and returning to the workforce can be challenging, which is where we see great opportunity to give individuals a foot in the door, providing invaluable experience that aims to improve prospects for future employment within the space and spatial sector.
We are looking for applicants who meet the following criteria:
- A current student, recent graduate (graduated in last two years) or returning from a career break who has studied/studying spatial sciences, or related fields (science or engineering)
- Have faced or believe you may face a barrier to entering the workforce (you will not be asked to self-identify details)
- Willingness to learn and embrace new technologies
- Have a relevant interest in any of Earth Observation, Remote Sensing, Python Programming, Open Source Software, Space, Physics, Astronomy, Meteorology, Data Science, Data Analytics, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Positioning, Project Management, Communications
- The ability to work in a team, be curious and ask questions
How long does the program go for?
This program offers flexible working arrangements, equating to approximately 2 days per week for 8 weeks.
How many hours per week will I have to work?
Participants will need to be available to work for a minimum of 15 hours per week for the duration of the program.
What are the working arrangements?
Our working arrangements are flexible regarding location, we welcome applicants from all locations in Australia and New Zealand.
What will I be paid?
We believe all internships should be paid, resulting in participants being paid on a casual rate for the duration of the internship.
How will I be supported throughout the program?
Participants will meet regularly with their line managers who will offer support regarding their roles and responsibilities. Interns will also meet regularly with their mentors to discuss career goals, pathways and planning.
What is the application process?
Applicants will complete their online application for the Launching Leaders program. All applications will be blindly reviewed and shortlisted for interviews. Interviews will be held virtually and individually with staff members from the D&I committee.
Will I interact with other interns or staff members?
We strive to promote inclusion, meaning all interns will be invited to FrontierSI staff meetings and team/company-wide social events.
What happens at the end of the program?
Near completion of the program, interns will be supported by a member of the D&I committee to work towards their end of internship presentation to staff.
Is there potential for ongoing work beyond the program?
Participants may be offered ongoing work (i.e. full-time, part-time, casual or other flexible arrangement).
Testimonials from our 2023 Interns
Rebecca Thomas
“Frontier SI is a remarkable and inclusive community of industry leaders within the Australian Space Sector. The team’s enthusiasm, skills, and dedication to fostering Australian capability and growth are truly inspiring. Participating in the Launching Leaders Inclusivity and Diversity Internship has been an invaluable and enjoyable experience. Engaging in the program was transformative as it offered an abundance of resources, numerous avenues for growth, and helped me advance significantly within the industry.”
Rebecca is a uniquely skilled individual, passionate about all things Aerospace. With a deep curiosity for innovation, Rebecca’s fascination for spatial positioning only expanded when joining the Frontier SI team as an intern. Studying Aviation Piloting and Space Technology at Swinburne University plus, working as a Search and Rescue Aircrewman, Rebecca has a unique understanding of the importance of space tech applications within multidisciplinary fields and real-world contexts, including assisting plus preserving life on Earth. Rebecca’s aviation career has afforded her the opportunity to travel the globe, live in the Middle East plus integrate her unique understanding of complex plus remote operations and adapt this knowledge to new systems. With previous studies in the Sciences, Rebecca has a broad knowledge basis with strong practical life experience and is an advocate for facilitating the progression and development of space technologies for the benefit of all.
James Weppner
“The Launching Leaders Internship Program has provided me with an opportunity to develop the knowledge I have learnt at university into applicable skills as well as new skills that will provide me with a boost in my future careers.”
James is currently FrontierSI’s 2023 Space Intern aiding in research and report writing for future ventures. He is in his final year of an Environmental Management degree majoring in Ecology, at UNSW. James has a keen interest in the application of Earth observation (EO) tools in ecosystem management. James also aims to undertake an Honours project in either Remote Sensing or GIS. James is a major plant fiend and acts as father to numerous plants both in and outside of home. He boasts two greenhouses which he is currently installing automated irrigation systems with a view of incorporating methods of recording various climatic factors such as temperature and humidity. James is an avid drummer having played for 15 years in bands throughout high school.
Zih-Hong Lin
“It was my honour to participate in the FrontierSI Launching Leaders Internship. I focused on Digital Earth Africa’s coastline products, developing a Python script to compare Landsat and Sentinel-2 datasets. Inconsistencies in the results prompted coastline script modifications. During my internship, I honed my Python skills for remote sensing data analysis and processing. Additionally, connecting with professionals in the field has expanded my network and provided me with advice, and Industry insights. The internship also helped me recognize my strengths, weaknesses, and areas for growth. Overall, it was an invaluable experience for me.”
Zih-Hong is a Ph.D. student majoring in Environmental Management at UNSW. With a background in Geography and Urban Planning, Zih-Hong has experience in applying remote sensing data and spatial statistical models to tackle complex spatial management issues. Zih-Hong’s latest project focuses on green infrastructure planning, an environmental efficiency strategy for creating sustainable cities. In his leisure time, Zih-Hong is a sports enthusiast who enjoys playing basketball, volleyball, table tennis, and badminton.
