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The 2024 Interns of Benchmark
As the summer comes to end, we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on our incredible summer interns who have brought enthusiasm, creativity, and a new perspective to our team. From brainstorming sessions to hands-on projects, these bright individuals have already made a significant impact, proving that the future of the space industry is in exceptionally capable hands.
Daniel, Mechanical Design Engineering Intern
During my time as an intern at Benchmark Space Systems, one of the main lessons I have taken with me was autonomy and confidence as an engineer. The training I’ve received, the immense support from fellow coworkers and the responsibility I have been given to design and work on important systems has led me to feel like I’m not just an intern, but an integral part of the company’s mission. Whatever my career in aerospace has in store for me, I am certain that the valuable experience I have earned these last two summers here will be a benchmark towards my formation as a confident and competent engineer!
Nick, Production Engineering Intern
I was sort of oblivious to how many moving parts need to align to get a system through production and out the door, and seeing multiple units go from a mess of hardware to a completed kit taught me numerous things to look out for. Big picture, I've learned how to juggle multiple projects at once, prioritizing work at different times based on what we need finished. Straight from my first technical interview, Benchmark seemed like an amazing place to work. The questions were unique, and the interviewers were welcoming, and the freedom to be able to choose what projects I was involved in was beyond great. Because of this, I've been able to get experience in design, analysis, and production, giving me a more well-rounded experience and a better idea of what to do when I officially enter the field.
Braiden, Test Engineer Intern
Something new that I’ve learned at BSS is what it actually means to be an engineer. In school I’m mostly just taught the technicalities of engineering, but during my internship I’ve learned so much outside of that. Being able to see the whole engineering process, designing, creating, testing, and communicating ideas has been such a good learning opportunity. I’ve also gotten the chance to work in many other engineering roles here, which has been a great way to broaden my experience. I was originally attracted to BSS because it was located near UVM and I knew I wanted to pursue a career in aerospace. After looking into the company more, I realized the fast-paced environment of a startup that I would be working in and the necessity to be able to step into other roles. This is what really drove me to apply as I knew I would be able to soak in so much more knowledge of the field.
Ellie, Test Engineering Intern
One of the most valuable learning experiences I have had at Benchmark is learning how to think on the fly and adapt to the situation in front of me. There is always so much going on, and things are constantly changing. Some days, I am working on testing a component, while other days I am working with chemicals. I have learned how to problem-solve and switch from one type of work to another. This has been a great way to experience the different projects happening at Benchmark. My favorite memory at BSS is when we did the POTATOEs (Protocols of Test Activities and Test Operations & Equipment) training. I really enjoyed this because it was a safe environment to walk step by step through test procedures and precautions, with no risk. It was super fun to work with a team and add a bit of competition.
Gabriel, Production Engineering Intern
While interning at BSS I've learned all about the ins and outs of small batch, high complexity manufacturing. While working primarily on the tanks, I've been able to prototype new and improved processes, refine existing systems, and meet a ton of passionate and great coworkers. I was led to Benchmark by an interest in aerospace and a desire to spend the summer in Burlington. I go to school at UVM, so being in Burlington and being able to spend my free time hanging out with friends while working on interesting engineering challenges during the workday has been incredible. Some of my favorite memories have been connecting with the other interns and team here. Everyone at Benchmark has been so incredibly kind and welcoming! I can't wait to continue my engineering journey at Benchmark this fall and use the skills I've learned to keep finding solutions to complicated engineering and design challenges.
Anjum, Business Development Intern 
During my time at Benchmark, I developed a deeper understanding of B2B marketing strategies and gained significant exposure to the space industry. Learning how to effectively engage diverse clientele has been highly beneficial for my professional growth. This experience has further honed my ability to adapt to any industry I may go into in the future. One of my favorite memories at benchmark was witnessing the first hot fire test at our new Vermont facility. The enthusiasm of everyone in the office that day was truly inspiring, and it has fueled my excitement to learn more about the space industry.
Deven, Mechanical Analysis Engineering Intern
This internship has been one of the best work experiences during my time in the US. As a foreign national in the US, it is even harder to work in the aerospace industry and therefore I would like to thank Benchmark Space Systems for giving me this amazing opportunity. I learned a lot about different analysis techniques and material models that I would not have come across during my PhD. Working alongside some of the highly experienced analysis engineers in the field, was a treat. I will always cherish the mentorship that I received, while working on actual company projects. The engineers here are extremely passionate about what they do and their love for space engineering is infectious. I would love to come back to Benchmark for a full-time role in the future.
Donovan, Propulsion Development Intern
As a Propulsion Development Intern at the Pleasanton, California office, I spent this summer expanding my skills as a mechanical designer and propulsion analyst. Coming from NC State's Liquid Rocketry Lab, a student team that has spent years working towards a hydrocarbon/hydrogen peroxide engine architecture, I was particularly attracted to Benchmark's emphasis on green propulsion technologies. I hoped to deepen my experience in this field, and this summer, I achieved that and so much more thanks to my fantastic managers and the entire propulsion development team. From designing a catalyst development thruster from scratch to exploring new computational modeling methods for our thrusters, I was thoroughly enabled to expand on my skills and interests all the while making significant contributions to present and future development efforts. In the future, I hope to use the knowledge I gained at Benchmark to push towards hot fire with Liquid Rocketry Lab and to explore cutting-edge technologies in propulsion and beyond.