Dothan, Ala (WDNews) – Kay Ivey announced Friday that applications are now open for the 2026 Governor’s Office Summer Internship Program.
The nine-week program offers college students hands-on experience in state government, working directly with staff in the executive branch. Interns assist with daily operations, special projects and policy-related work impacting Alabama.
“I am excited to welcome another class of bright, driven students to Montgomery this summer,” Ivey said. “This program gives young people a firsthand look at state government while allowing them to make a real difference in Alabama.”
Former interns say the program has lasting value beyond the summer. Mary Sullivan, a 2025 intern in the Governor’s Press Office and a student at The University of Alabama, said the experience helped shape her career path. Sullivan was recently selected as a 2026 Capitol Scholar.
“The governor’s internship reshaped my approach to public service,” Sullivan said, citing professional development, mentorship and continued support after the internship.
The program has also led to full-time roles within the Ivey administration. John Gilchrist, a Tuskegee University graduate, interned in the Governor’s Appointments Office and now serves as a constituent services policy correspondent.
“Witnessing the collaboration between the executive branch and state agencies revealed the immense scale of responsibilities it takes to keep our state moving,” Gilchrist said.
The internship will run from June 2 through July 31, 2026. Applicants must be current college students with an interest in public service and government.
The deadline to apply is March 13, 2026, by close of business. More information and application details are available at governor.alabama.gov/administration/internship-.
