Lockheed Martin Celebrates Achievements Of 56 UAE Interns At CISS Graduation Ceremony

Lockheed Martin recently honoured 56 UAE interns at the third annual graduation ceremony for its Centre for Innovation and Security Solutions (CISS) internship programme. The event, held on 30th January at the Marriott Hotel Al Forsan in Abu Dhabi, also welcomed 15 alumni from previous years, highlighting the company's dedication to STEM education and human capital development in the UAE.

The CISS internship programme began in 2017 with just four students and has since expanded into a year-round initiative. This growth reflects increasing demand, with annual graduation ceremonies now marking their third year. These events celebrate students who completed internships during spring, summer, and fall programmes.

The ceremony was hosted by Gen. John Nicholson (U.S. Army, Ret.), Lockheed Martin Middle East's chief executive, and CISS Manager Hala Majeed Al Zargani. It featured innovative projects from the student cohort, which in 2024 included 37% women and 55% Emirati nationals. Dignitaries, business leaders, academics, and diplomats attended to learn about the program and its projects before certificates were presented.

Nicholson emphasised the importance of developing human capital for building a knowledge-based economy in the UAE. He stated, "Through our STEM-focused internship programme, we are equipping the next generation with the skills to drive innovation, sustain economic growth, and contribute meaningfully to the aerospace and defense sectors."

Al Zargani praised the graduates' ingenuity and technical expertise. She noted that their work on real-world projects prepares them for critical industries shaping the future while fostering innovative thinking and problem-solving skills essential for tackling complex challenges.

Hands-On Experience in Advanced Fields

The CISS programme provides practical experience in advanced fields such as artificial intelligence for automating foreign object debris identification, modelling and simulation for defence systems, and space exploration initiatives. This expansion into a year-round programme highlights Lockheed Martin's commitment to Emiratisation and developing a skilled local workforce.

Looking ahead, Lockheed Martin plans to double its training capacity in coming years. This move underscores their dedication to cultivating talent within the UAE's growing aerospace sector while supporting national goals of innovation-driven economic growth.

With inputs from WAM