Federal Initiatives

Creating pathways to public service careers.

The Washington Center partners with federal and state agencies, universities and other organizations to provide program administration for merit- and needs-based internships and fellowships, and to recruit a pipeline of nationwide talent. TWC provides support and guidance to help students build essential skills, expand their networks, and gain meaningful internship experiences. 

Current Federal Internship Landscape

Due to recent workforce changes, hiring freezes and budget constraints, many federal internship opportunities have been suspended or cancelled. We understand this creates uncertainty for students who have been planning their career paths around public service opportunities. 

While these programs are currently paused, the fundamental need to develop a talent pipeline remains stronger than ever. When federal agencies are ready to rebuild their internship programs, the competition for qualified candidates will be intense, and students will need expert guidance to navigate the complexities of federal agencies and identify the right internship opportunities. 

For Government Agencies: Building a Talent Pipeline with TWC

When your agency is ready to re-establish internship programs, TWC stands ready to be your strategic partner. Our Funded Federal Initiatives division specializes in creating efficient, effective pathways to public service careers. Here’s the value that TWC brings to your agency:  

  • Higher Ed Partnerships: We partner with hundreds of colleges and universities nationwide to recruit a highly qualified pool of candidates ready for public service.  
  • Administrative Efficiency: We manage logistics – placement coordination, travel, housing, and more – so your agency can focus on its core mission.  
  • Proven Vetting and Quality Control: We have established processes for identifying and screening applicants to ensure your agency is matched with top-tier candidates.  
  • Nationwide Talent Access: We reach talented students across the country who may otherwise not have access to public service opportunities. Your agency benefits from a geographically diverse talent pool.  
  • Risk Mitigation: Our established compliance and evaluation processes, as well as student support services, help to reduce agency risk and ensure program success.  

See more information on TWC’s Flexible Partnership Approaches, including our GSA Multiple Award Schedule. Email us at federalrelations@twc.edu to request more information or to schedule a consultation.  

For Students: Why Choose TWC for Federal Internships?

When federal internship opportunities resume, TWC will continue to offer high-quality, meaningful experiences in Washington, D.C., ensuring you gain the skills that prepare you for your future career. The benefits of pursuing a federal internship through TWC include: 

  • Personalized Placement Support: When you apply with TWC, we help match you with the internship program that best fits your academic interests. 
  • Career Readiness Workshops: TWC interns participate in valuable workshops, such as professional communication, critical thinking, budgeting, conflict resolution, resume writing, salary negotiation, and more.  
  • Networking Opportunities: You’ll have opportunities to forge lasting connections with industry leaders as well as interns in other programs.  
  • Provided Housing: Interns have the option of staying at the Residential Academic Facility (RAF), located in NoMa, Washington, D.C.’s most dynamic and rapidly evolving neighborhood, in the heart of our nation’s capital. Our building provides 24-hour front desk security and is ADA-compliant.  
  • Support and Guidance: Interns receive ongoing support and guidance from our Housing Services staff to ensure a successful living experience.  

TWC provided essential structure, support, and a strong peer community. It helped me align with my goals and offered professional development resources, enhancing my connections with other federal interns. The network and guidance from TWC made my experience even more impactful.”

Intern in the Library of Congress Internship Program

If you’re a college or university student interested in exploring public service careers, click the button below to complete an interest form and receive email updates. 

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Our Federal Partnership Legacy

TWC's Funded Federal Initiatives division has decades of experience working with federal agencies to develop the next generation of public servants. Our past partnerships demonstrate our capability and commitment to excellence in government internship programming. 

Commerce and Economic Data 

  • Census Bureau 

Defense and Security 

  • Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) 
  • U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) 

Health and Human Services 

  • Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) 
  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) 
  • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 

International Affairs and Diplomacy 

  • U.S. Department of State (DOS)  

Legislative Support and Cultural Heritage 

  • Library of Congress (LOC) 

Transportation and Infrastructure 

  • Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) 
  • U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) 

Treasury and Financial Services 

  • Bureau of Engraving & Printing (BEP) 
  • Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) 
  • National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) 
  • U.S. Department of the Treasury - Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) 
  • U.S. Department of the Treasury - Office of Minority and Women Inclusion (OMWI) 

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