The Office of Policy Analysis and Development (OPAD) supports NTIA's role as the principal adviser to the President on telecommunications and information policies. Its goal is to enhance the public interest by generating, articulating, and advocating creative and influential policies and programs in the telecommunications and information sectors that promote innovation, competition, consumer welfare, and economic and social opportunities for all.

With a multi-disciplinary staff, OPAD is the domestic policy division of NTIA.  OPAD is currently seeking multiple unpaid student interns for the spring (March – May) and summer (May – August) sessions in 2009 to assist our professional staff on a number of important initiatives, including the Broadband Deployment Grant Program.  

Interns are welcome for either a semester or longer duration. Depending upon the intern's interests, skills and experience s/he will have the opportunity to write as well as conduct research on cutting-edge policy issues. In addition, interns typically attend staff and policy meetings, accompany OPAD staff to external conferences, meetings and events, and meet key officials and staff within the Department of Commerce and other entities.

OPAD analyzes a wide range of issues affecting telecommunications and information. It makes policy recommendations in such areas as common carrier; mass media (e.g., radio, television, cable); wireless services and radio spectrum management; the Internet and electronic commerce; new advanced broadband networks; and public interest issues related to telecommunications and information services.

NTIA/OPAD also conducts original research on issues such as Internet (including broadband) use. NTIA's Minority Telecommunications Development Program (MTDP), located within OPAD, develops programs and policies to increase minority ownership of broadcast and other telecommunication businesses.

Requirements: All students must hold U.S. citizenship and be currently enrolled in a university program to be qualified for an internship position. Interested students should submit a cover letter, resume, and a writing sample (10-page limit). Please submit these documents by the following deadlines:
Spring 2009: February 24.
Summer 2009: April 15.

Interested students should send the documents listed above via email to:
Jim McConnaughey
Office of Policy Analysis and Development
National Telecommunications and Information Administration
U.S. Department of Commerce
14th St. & Constitution Ave., NW, Room 4725
Washington, D.C. 20230
Voice: (202) 482-1880 • Fax: (202) 482-6173
jmcconnaughey@ntia.doc.gov