Name: Jonah Malcom

Pronouns: He/Him

Semester of Internship: Summer 2025

Major: Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science and Mathematics Minor

Current Class Level: Junior

This semester I completed a(n)...: Internship

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): UMDs Space Systems Laboratory, through Maryland Space Grant Consortium (MDSGC)

Location of the Organization (City, State): College Park, Maryland

Title of position: Robotics and Controls Software Engineering Intern, 

Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:

This summer, I am interning with the Maryland Space Grant Consortium (MDSGC) at the University of Maryland’s Space Systems Laboratory (SSL), where I am working on VERTEX, a Mars rover platform as a part of NASA's BioBot research initiative. My primary focus is on robotics and control systems, particularly the rover’s suspension and drivetrain. On a day-to-day basis, I write software in both Python and C++ to control and fine-tune rover behavior, using the Robot Operating System 2 (ROS 2) framework. A key part of my work involves interfacing with the Galil motion controller to issue motor commands and monitor performance. I spend a significant amount of time testing code in both simulation and on the physical rover, identifying issues in real time, and collaborating with other team members to implement solutions. This experience has deepened my understanding of motion control, embedded systems, and the practical application of software in robotics for space environments.

Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?

During spring break, I received an email from my Thermodynamics professor about open internship positions at Maryland labs through the Maryland Space Grant Consortium (MDSGC). Knowing the program is highly competitive, I applied immediately. After submitting my application, I met with my professor to learn more about MDSGC, discuss the available opportunities, and hear about his own involvement with the program. Within a month, I was invited to interview with Dr. Dave Akin, the director of the Space Systems Laboratory (SSL), and was officially offered the position shortly afterward.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

Faculty Connections

What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?

What I’ve enjoyed most about my internship at the Space Systems Laboratory is the chance to apply the engineering knowledge I’ve gained at UMBC to a hands-on, space-related project that aligns with my career goals. Working on VERTEX, the lab’s Mars rover platform, has given me a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the field of space exploration. I’ve been fascinated by space for as long as I can remember, and being part of a team that’s developing robotics for planetary environments feels like a dream come true. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how the concepts I’ve learned in class translate into solving real-world challenges on a project that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible.

How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?

Life support systems are extremely heavy, even in reduced-gravity environments like the Moon or Mars, and carrying them can significantly limit astronaut mobility. NASA’s BioBot initiative addresses this by using a robotic rover to carry the life support system, connected to the astronaut via an umbilical, and designed to autonomously follow them. Through my work on VERTEX, I’m contributing to the development of rover technologies that support this vision. By helping to design and implement advanced control systems, I’m helping to make future space exploration more accessible, less physically demanding, and ultimately safer for astronauts of all sizes and strengths.

What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?

Build genuine relationships with professors, mentors, and professionals in the field you’re passionate about. They can be an invaluable source of guidance, opportunities, and support. At the same time, focus on maintaining a strong academic record, as it not only demonstrates your commitment but also opens doors to competitive programs. Don’t be afraid to take initiative: reach out, ask questions, and apply early. Internships are not just about experience, they’re about proving to yourself and others that you’re capable of turning your passion into a career.

Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center.

Working on VERTEX at UMD's Space System Laboratory has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my academic career. I loved applying my engineering skills to a real-world space robotics project that aligns with my passion for exploration. The Career Center's resume-building resources were incredibly helpful in preparing my application and making me a more competitive candidate.

The Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP) connects college students and recent grads with disabilities to internships and full-time jobs in the federal government—and some private-sector employers, too.

Who’s Eligible?

• U.S. citizens with a disability (Schedule A eligible)

• Enrolled full-time in college or grad school OR graduated on/after April 1, 2023

How to Apply:
Go to WRP.gov and click “Students Register Now!” (Use a computer or tablet—mobile won’t work.)

⏳ Deadline: Friday, October 10 at 11:59 PM PST
Register early—you’ll need time to get approved, upload your resume and transcript, and complete your application.

Don't miss out—this is your chance to get your foot in the door!

Attention all UMBC student employees!  

What could be better than having an on-campus job?

Having an on-campus job and getting a notation on your transcript that tells employers you made the effort to enhance your professional development!

Interested in gaining a competitive edge in the job market? Sign up for PRAC 102- Building Skills for Career Success this Spring semester. Don’t worry, it’s not a formal class! With the minimal commitment of attending a few workshops and career events, you will be better prepared for the world of work and have the proof on your college transcript to show your employer.

DEADLINE TO REQUEST ENROLLMENT: Tuesday, September 30,2025

Make your campus experience count! Enroll TODAY! Enrollment is limited to the first 40 student employees. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by!  

Open to all levels and majors. You must be a UMBC student employee working at least eight hours per week on campus. 

How to Register Online

1. Log in to Handshake, then navigate to Career Center > Experiences.

2. Click “Submit an Experience” and select “Career Center – On-Campus Student Employment (PRAC 102- Building Skills for Career Success)” as the Experience Type. Fill in the required fields and submit.

3. Your registration will be reviewed within two business days. The Career Center will enroll you directly upon review along with sending you additional details.

QUESTIONS, please get in touch with Stephanie Taylor Okoukoni (staylor18@umbc.edu) 

Lockheed Martin is hosting virtual interviews for both intern and full-time positions, specifically for students majoring in Computer Science, Software Engineering, AI/ML and Cyber Security.  

If you are interested in this interview opportunity, be sure to apply right away. US Work Authorization is required for positions within this company. These include summer intern positions.

About the Company

Lockheed Martin is a leading global aerospace and defense company that plays a major role in developing advanced technologies for security, space exploration, and aviation. Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, it designs and builds everything from fighter jets like the F-35 to spacecraft for NASA and missile defense systems. With a strong focus on innovation, the company also invests in areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and autonomous systems.

LOCKHEED MARTIN VIRTUAL HIRING EVENT

Interested in Interviewing with a Company Where the Best are Built?
Want to join a team that values sharp thinkers, curious builders, and problem solvers ready to learn and grow?  

Lockheed Martin will be hosting a virtual interview event August 26, 2025, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm ET. We will be interviewing for full-time and internship positions in: Computer Science, Software Engineering, AI/ML and Cyber Security. 

Visit this LINK to apply no later than August 18, 2025. We will be in touch if you are selected to move forward to the interview stage. Tell your friends about these opportunities! 

Summer might feel like a time to slow down, but when it comes to your career, it’s actually the perfect season to build and maintain your professional network. Without the pressures of class schedules, midterms, and group projects, you have more flexibility — and let’s be honest, brain space — to invest in making meaningful connections that could help shape your future.

Here are a few simple (and stress-free) ways to stay professionally connected this summer:

1. Reach Out and Reconnect

Think about professors, classmates, or supervisors you haven’t talked to in a while. A quick message to say hi and share a brief update can go a long way in keeping your name fresh in their mind. Consider sharing an article or video that made you think of them. Networking isn’t just about asking for favors like a job — it’s about maintaining relationships over time.

2. Use Steppingblocks to Explore Options

If you're not sure where to start, check out Steppingblocks — UMBC’s data-driven tool where you can research jobs and look at alumni career paths. Steppingblocks is able to provide you with a list of companies that you can research and connect with. You also can get a better sense of how alumni got to your career of choice, allowing you to craft a more informed series of questions for informational interviews.

3. Conduct Informational Interviews

Have some free afternoons? Use that time to learn more about your field of interest. Reach out to someone on LinkedIn or Retrievers Connect to set up a virtual coffee chat. Ask about their career path, day-to-day responsibilities, and any advice they have for students like you. If you’re not sure about what to ask, you can check out our sample questions here. And if you need to practice before making the ask, hop onto Big Interview and practice answering questions.

4. Attend Events or Join Groups Online

There are tons of webinars, virtual meetups, and discussion groups happening year-round. Summer is a great time to drop in on a professional association event or follow an industry panel on LinkedIn Live. You can also go to Handshake and search for events that are relevant to your interests and open to all students. You never know who you’ll meet or what you’ll learn.

5. Follow Up (Even If It’s Just to Say Thanks!)

Did someone review your resume or give you helpful advice during the semester? Circle back with a thank-you message and a quick update on what you’ve been doing. Comment specifically on how their act of kindness positively impacted your career exploration. Small gestures like this can turn a one-time interaction into a lasting professional connection.

This summer, let networking work for you. Even just one new connection can lead to inspiration, insight, or opportunity. Log into Retrievers Connect today and start building relationships that matter — one DM at a time.