Velocity Summer Fellowship Program

Empowering the next generation of leaders in advocacy

How to Apply

Applications for the 2025 Summer Fellowship are now closed.

Any questions please email our Fellowship Coordinator, Jack Meloling, at jack@velocitygr.com.

What is the Velocity Fellowship?

Our Fellowship Program offers a dynamic opportunity for emerging leaders to gain hands-on experience in government relations, policy development, and the fast-evolving worlds of space, defense, and emerging technology, making it a premier opportunity for ambitious individuals seeking an immersive experience in these sectors. As a Fellow you will take a deep dive into the world of government relations, gaining insights in to working with the Legislative and Executive branches, and what it takes to achieve results in the competitive and complex national security and civil environments. Whether you are attending a congressional hearing or writing a policy memo, this program provides unmatched exposure to the critical intersections of tech, innovation, and public policy. Our Fellows work closely across our entire team, gaining professional experience while meaningfully contributing to projects that will influence the future of space, defense, and emerging tech.

Key Details

  • Program length: Typically, 3-4 months

  • Time commitment: Minimum 15 hours per week, however, we are always flexible. We do expect Fellows to come in-person as we have found they gain the most from the experience this way.

  • Compensation: Fellows are paid hourly and commensurate with experience (more details provided when applying).

  • Attend events: Represent Velocity at key congressional hearings and think tank events in and around Washington, DC related to space, technology, and national security and create concise executive-level notes for clients as well as key government and industry leaders.

  • Policy Tracking: Assist in monitoring legislative and administrative actions pertaining to client needs.

  • Weekly newsletter: Contribute to the Velocity Weekly newsletter, published at the end of every week.

  • Business Development: Assist in new client research and help grow Velocity’s brand through social media and networking.

  • Team Collaboration: Attend weekly strategy and staff meetings, contributing to discussions and assisting with special projects as needed.

What You Will Do As a Fellow

Who Are We Looking For?

  • Be enrolled as a senior undergraduate or graduate student, with a preference for those studying space policy, international affairs, public policy, security studies, or related fields.

  • Have a strong interest in government relations, national security, and legislative affairs.

  • Possess excellent research, writing, and communication skills.

  • Be detail-oriented, able to manage multiple tasks, and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

  • previous government or corporate experience is a plus but not required.

Meet Our Current Fellows…

  • Renee Katz is a graduate of Centenary College of Louisiana, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in political science. She is currently completing her master’s degree in international security at George Mason University, specializing in the role of rapidly advancing technology in great-power competition. Renee’s work focuses on the strategic and policy challenges posed by emerging technologies in the context of global security dynamics.

“This opportunity has transformed academic knowledge into practical experience, equipping me with skills and insights that will shape my future career."

"The Fellowship at Velocity has equipped me with a strong foundation in aerospace and defense policy analysis, while fostering a comprehensive understanding of the nuances of government relations to support my professional development."

  • Nicole joined Velocity as a Fellow in October 2024 after completing an internship with the Stimson Center’s Reimagining U.S. Grand Strategy Program and graduating from the University of Iowa in December 2023 with a B.A. in History and Psychology, a minor in International Relations, and a certificate in Public Health. Nicole has significant experience in national security and foreign policy analysis. Her research has explored topics such as drone warfare in Libya and the critical minerals supply chain. Prior to joining VGR, Nicole contributed to analysis on U.S. airpower, the nuclear triad, and energy security, along with gaining experience in congressional and public affairs.