Lee County Port Authority 2026 Intern Programs

Job Description

About Company

Since 1990, the Lee County Port Authority (LCPA) has established a strong legacy of providing exceptional internship opportunities for college students. The organization is dedicated to fostering learning and development, offering students comprehensive insights into all facets of airport management. LCPA prides itself on helping students understand the intricate operations of an airport, both publicly visible and behind-the-scenes, through diverse experiences and departmental rotations.

Job Description

The Lee County Port Authority is offering three distinct, paid internship programs in 2026, designed to provide college students with hands-on experience and deep dives into various aspects of airport management. These internships generally span 10 to 12 weeks, commencing in May, with a pay rate of $15 per hour. Interns are expected to meet high-performance standards and conclude their experience by writing a comprehensive paper.

General Requirements for all Internships:
• Students must be currently enrolled full-time in an airport/aviation management program, operations, or a closely related field at an accredited college/university.
• Applicants must be at a credit level of sophomore or above and actively pursuing a career in airport/aviation management, operations, planning, or a closely related field.
• A college-graded paper, written within the previous six months of the application date, must be submitted as a writing sample (minimum 5 pages of content). This should be attached under the resume section during application.
• Resumes must clearly articulate the student’s goals and objectives.
• Application materials required: Cover letter, resume, and writing sample.
• A professional demeanor and appearance, proficiency with office productivity software, and excellent speaking, writing, and analytical skills are highly desired for all successful candidates.

Application Deadline: November 30, 2025

Specific Internship Programs:

1. Airport Operations and Management
• Duration: 10- to 12-week paid internship.
• Schedule: Includes all shifts, day and night.
• Focus: This unique program offers a comprehensive experience of how a commercial airport functions. Interns will rotate through various departments, gaining insight into both public-facing and behind-the-scenes operations.
• Rotations (based on individual interests): May include operations, Lee County Port Authority Police Department, planning & development, engineering, environmental compliance, finance, Aircraft Rescue & Fire Fighting (ARFF), maintenance, communications & marketing, as well as Page Field (the general aviation airport).

2. Emergency Management
• Duration: 10- to 12-week paid internship.
• Schedule: Includes all shifts, day and night.
• Focus: The intern will actively assist with meetings, training sessions, and the development of various emergency functions. This includes participation in tabletop training exercises on topics such as active shooter scenarios, hurricane preparedness, airport evacuation, and family assistance/care team programs.
• Rotations: Throughout various emergency departments, including airport operations, Lee County Port Authority Police Department, Aircraft Rescue & Fire Fighting, and Page Field.
• External Engagements: Tours and meetings may be arranged with community responders (e.g., Lee County Emergency Management, Florida Department of Health, Red Cross, Lee Health), depending on schedule and interests.
• Relevant Coursework/Familiarity: Emergency management, airport management, and FEMA courses like the National Incident Management System (NIMS/ICS) are helpful. Familiarity with FAR Part 139 and other aviation-related regulations is also beneficial.

3. General Aviation Airport/FBO Operations and Management
• Duration: 10- to 12-week paid internship.
• Schedule: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Some after-hours work may be required depending on current airport projects.
• Location: Primarily held at Page Field (FMY), the general aviation airport.
• Focus: This internship provides an in-depth look at the operations of a general aviation airport and a Fixed-Base Operator (FBO). The intern will work closely with the operations manager and marketing coordinator.
• Key Tasks: Learning about airport and FBO operations, conducting research, participating in community outreach and activities, and other assigned projects.
• Additional Assignments: May include working with airport and FBO management, familiarization with other aviation businesses at the airport, FBO customer service and line service, maintenance, and finance.
• Opportunity: Interns will also have the chance to experience operations and visit other departments at the commercial service airport, RSW.