Director’s Apprenticeship Program

Interdisciplinary Pathways to Machine Learning and Data Science 

Applications for BLDAP:IPMLDS will open in February 2025.

BLDAP:IPMLDS serves to broaden the STEM network of young people in pursuit of STEM careers by providing them with direct access to STEM leaders and communities. In addition, the Pathway Summer School provides a hands-on introduction to emerging research fields at Department of Energy national labs. 

BLDAP: Interdisciplinary Pathways to Machine Learning and Data Science 

What is BLDAP:IPMLDS?

IPMLDS is a project-based high school STEM (Science Technology Engineering Mathematics) program designed to help participants develop 21st century skills, learn about Berkeley Lab’s research activities, receive college and career guidance, and develop a STEM network in a real-life work environment. The program seeks to remove barriers, such as a lack of access to professional networks and work-based opportunities, by providing strong connections to the scientific community at Berkeley Lab.


BLDAP in Action

Who Should Apply

This program prioritizes public school students in 10th and 11th grade in the Bay area, particularly Alameda, San Francisco, and Contra Costa counties, and seek to reflect the demographics of the residential population. While those in surrounding counties are encouraged to apply, this is an non residential, in-person program. Students will have to travel to Berkeley Lab a minimum of four days per week for six weeks during the summer. 

The Program

Participants will engage in hands-on projects, an engaging computer science short course, and weekly discussions with STEM professionals. Projects will focus on building 21st century research skills such as problem-solving, communication, and collaboration while building a vibrant STEM network. 

Participants who successfully complete the apprenticeship summer will have the opportunity to participate in additional short courses, workshops, and special seminars at Berkeley Lab throughout the following fall and spring. Students in good standing prior to the next summer will receive an invitation to participate in a traditional laboratory internship. An on-site internship is dependent upon public health policies.

The 2025 apprenticeship program will take place in-person from June 17 - July 25, 2025

2025 Application

Program objectives 

Sponsors

Funding for this program was provided through the WDTS RENEW Pathway Summer School (PSS) initiative Find more information on their website.