STEAM Externship
June – July 2026
2026 STEAM Summer Externship
We are seeking incoming high school juniors and seniors (ages 16–18) for the Kern–UCLA Future Educators Pathway Program STEAM Summer Externship. This unpaid externship offers real-world exposure and prepares students for future opportunities with the KCSOS STEAM Yard Mentor Program, however incentives will be provided based on attendance and participation.
Participants will gain hands-on exposure to educational environments, mentorship opportunities, and workplace experiences that can support both their academic and professional growth. Through this program, students will build practical workforce skills, connect with educators and industry professionals, and prepare for future opportunities within the KCSOS STEAM Yard Mentor Program. This externship is an excellent opportunity for students interested in education, leadership, and STEAM fields to invest in their future, expand their professional network, and gain meaningful experience that can support their long-term educational and career goals.
What Is the STEAM Program?
This summer program gives high school students hands-on experience in education and STEAM field while earning free UCLA college credit.
Externs will gain real-world experience through:
- Work in real-world STEAM education environments
- Enroll in a free UCLA School of Education course (Education 10)
- Learn from and work alongside education professionals
- Build leadership and job skills for future success
- Professional Shadowing: Observe STEAM educators in action
- Hands-On Support: Help set up classrooms and labs
- Equipment & Inventory: Organize, clean, and maintain tools
- Student Engagement: Support activities
- Workplace Skills: Build teamwork, problem-solving, & technical skills
Externs will also be required to participate in a weekly 1 hour professional development session Wednesdays 11am -12:15pm throughout the duration of the UCLA summer course from June 22 – July 31. These sessions will directly follow the Wednesday ED10 class times. Incentives will be provided upon weekly completion of tasks and assignments during these 6 weeks.
Program Details (Summer 2026)
Who Can Join:
Incoming Juniors and Seniors (ages 16-18) enrolled in the UCLA Future Educators Pathway Program.
Where Will You Learn?
Students will rotate through leading STEAM education sites:
- STEAM Yard located at the new KCSOS’s Learning Center, 2020 K. St.
- CALM (California Living Museum)
- Kern County Museum
What Will You Do?
- Shadow STEAM educators and mentors
- Assist with classroom/lab setup and activities
- Opportunities to observe learning sessions for youth
- Practice teamwork, communication, and leadership
- Support students in your community
How Do I Apply?
DUE MAY 15, 2026 at 5:00pm
View the STEAM Externship program flyer below and Scan the QR code or visit bit.ly/STEAMCCP26 to submit your application for the program.
For any questions about the application process, please contact stbaltazar@kern.org or prieto@seis.ucla.edu.