In the Des Moines Airport Authority SkillBridge internship, participants will gain hands-on experience in airport operations by shadowing and performing the daily duties of an Operations Duty Officer. During this 3‑month, in‑person program at the Des Moines International Airport, interns will follow a structured training plan that includes airfield and gate inspections, radio communications with the Air Traffic Control Tower, movement area driver training, report writing, security system familiarization, airfield marking and lighting inspections, pavement condition monitoring, and exposure to badging, security plans, aircraft tow escort procedures, and night operations orientation. Interns will rotate through both day and night shifts to understand 24/7 airfield operations, build operational readiness, and develop industry skills aligned with civilian Airport Operations career pathways. The program prepares transitioning service members for entry‑level airport operations and management roles, leveraging prior military airfield experience while offering real‑world training, professional development, and a pathway to competitive civilian employment in aviation operations.

The Operations Duty Officer SkillBridge Internship provides transitioning service members with structured, hands-on training in airport operations at the Des Moines International Airport. During this 3‑month in‑person internship, participants will support and learn core operational functions that ensure the safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance of the airfield environment. Interns will participate in daily shift‑change briefings, conduct airfield and gate inspections, respond to calls across the airport grounds, and complete Movement Area Drivers Training and airfield orientation under the supervision of airport operations staff. Training includes reviewing Standard Operating Procedures, airport rules and regulations, radio communications with the Air Traffic Control Tower, documentation and report writing, and use of airport security systems. Advanced instruction covers airfield markings, lighting systems, pavement inspection requirements, and core elements of airfield management. Interns also train in security operations—including badging processes, compliance with the Airport Security Plan, and aircraft tow escort procedures—and complete a two‑week night operations rotation featuring nighttime airfield inspections and exposure to the airport’s Safety Management System. This internship prepares participants for entry‑level airport operations and management roles with responsibilities tied to airfield safety, regulatory compliance, security protocols, and 24/7 airport operational readiness.

Eligible participants must have previous airfield experience, as this background is essential for successfully completing the required airfield orientation, inspections, and safety procedures expected within the Operations Duty Officer role. In addition, participants must be able to work rotating shifts, including nights and weekends, to accommodate the airport’s 24/7 operational schedule and the program’s required night operations rotation.