How to Get a Project Management Internship: Skills Needed & Steps

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• A project management internship offers hands-on experience in planning, executing, and overseeing projects within an organization.
• Key skills for a project management intern include strong communication, organization, time management, and problem-solving abilities.
• To secure an internship, one must apply early, tailor their resume, prepare thoroughly for interviews, and follow up with hiring managers.

A project management internship or job training program can be a lucrative first step if you are considering a career as a project manager. An internship is a foot-in-the-door to a desirable company, as well as an opportunity to learn a new skill set and begin to build your resume.

Read more: Guide to Becoming a Project Manager

How to Find a Project Management Internship

There are many great resources for internship candidates seeking the perfect project management job training opportunity. To land your ideal internship, be sure to do the following:

• Visit your college career center and learn about all of the resources they offer, including lists of open internships in your field of study.
• Research internship programs at a company you might like to work for in the future, like Charles Schwab Internship Academy.
• Search popular job boards for existing internship listings. The Project Management Institute’s Job Board can help you find project management-focused internships in the US and abroad.
• Directly contact hiring managers or HR departments at companies where you may want to start your career.
• Obtain a referral from someone you know, and network your way into an exciting internship role.

How to Get an Internship

• Apply early to find the best internship opportunities.
• Write a resume tailored to the type of internship you are seeking and highlight your best skills. Have someone you trust review it for a second opinion.
• Prepare for the interview just as you would for any job. Dress professionally and practice answers to common internship interview questions.
• Follow up with the hiring manager after the interview by sending a follow-up letter or email. Thank them for the opportunity to chat, reiterate your interest, and summarize your qualifications.

What Do Project Manager Interns Do?

As an intern, you will be asked to do many tasks that teach you project management skills and introduce you to specific aspects of the industry. You may be asked to work as part of a specialized team such as a scrum team or PMO.

You will learn about an industry, product, or service and how to manage related projects. Most importantly, you will develop relevant skills and make valuable connections as you begin to network your way into a project manager career path.

How Long Does an Internship Last?

An internship can last from a few weeks to a year. This depends on your grade in school, whether it is a paid job training program with the opportunity to hire, an unpaid internship, or a part-time position. Some internships last a school semester, which is typically 10 to 12 weeks long. Some internships may lead to an official project management job position offered at the end.

Read more: How Much Do Project Managers Make?

What Skills Should You Bring to an Internship?

A responsible project management intern should bring some or all of the following skills to the table:

• Good time management
• Adaptability
• Openness to collaboration
• Interpersonal skills
• Critical thinking skills

What Do You Get Out of a Project Management Internship?

A project management internship is your opportunity to learn and grow alongside project teams that plan, execute, and deliver a variety of projects to the business and to customers. You can expect to gain real-world experience in an industry that interests you and a job role you can be hired for one day.

In the role, you will learn specific skills unique to the industry, and learn how to work as part of a process-driven team. Some internships end with the opportunity to be hired on as a full time employee. Make the most of your time as a project management intern and ask lots of questions!