Learning and Development Intern chez The Henry Ford

The Ford Foundation Equity Initiative (FFEI) Internship Program at The Henry Ford is a cohort-based program that offers professional development, mentorship, and networking opportunities. We invite diverse candidates* who are curious about careers in the museum world to become a part of our legacy and take it forward. For Winter 2026, internships will last 15 weeks, projected to begin on January 26th and conclude on May 8th. 

*Candidates who have a disability, identify as Black, Native American, Asian, Pacific Islander, Arab, Middle Eastern, Hispanic, Latino/a/x, LGBTQIA+, or who exist at the intersection of these identities are encouraged to apply. All submitted applications will be considered. 

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis in the order that they are received. We encourage all interested candidates to submit applications sooner rather than later. 

How will we work together? 

The Learning & Development Intern can expect to work on site at The Henry Ford’s campus in Dearborn, MI. 

This internship opportunity will be led by the Senior Manager of Talent Development at The Henry Ford and supported by our Talent & Culture department. As our Learning & Development Intern, you will have an opportunity to work with multiple departments and cross-functional teams at The Henry Ford. Working directly with our Learning & Development Team, you will contribute to the success of ongoing and forthcoming projects, organize and optimize our current systems, and receive guidance and training that meets you where you are.  

Primary responsibilities and projected projects include : 

• Assist in the design and implementation of a training course for new software that will be used across the organization. 
• Learning Management System (LMS) administration.  
• Creation of instructional materials to help support departmental and institutional learning initiatives. 
• Assist in the administration and facilitation of our new staff onboarding program, Inspiring Service Orientation.   

We hope you will join us. 

What requirements should you have? 

To be successful, the Learning & Development Intern should have an interest in education, training, and professional development, as well as a demonstrated commitment to lifelong learning through academic, professional, or volunteer experience. 

You will need: 

• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities 
• Curiosity 
• Effective and flexible communication skills 
• Dedication to collaboration and teamwork 
• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office suite of services (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc) 

Application Materials: 

• Resume 
• Statement of Purpose 

The Ford Foundation Equity Initiative Internship Program Overview and Time Commitment 

The FFEI Internship Program’s mission is to offer opportunities in museum work to emerging professionals who identify with historically marginalized groups and to invite our interns to think outside the box and explore their careers in new ways. 

Participants will engage in the program through various bi-weekly professional development workshops hosted on our Dearborn campus. It is mandatory for participants to attend, and applicants should work with their leadership to ensure proper attendance. Workshops typically occur on Wednesdays during the work week. 

Attendance to our Intern Orientation is also mandatory. Our Winter 2026 orientation will occur on January 26th, 2026. 

Why work with THF? 

At The Henry Ford, we are committed to helping you explore your passions, curiosities, and professional aspirations. Our goal is to create a diverse and inclusive environment, where you can develop your skills and integrate all that you learn into real-world practices. You will gain exposure to not only the team you will work alongside, but also what it means to work in the unique museum world. This is an opportunity to develop great work habits, build communication tools, and apply critical thinking that will help shape your future success. 

We are excited for you to come and be a part of our team! If this sounds like something you would love, please apply. We can’t wait to meet you. 

Please note: International students seeking practical training are welcome to apply. 

Funding for the 2026 Diversity and Inclusion Internship Program is provided by The Ford Foundation. 

The Henry Ford is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  

The Henry Ford prohibits discrimination based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, genetic information, pregnancy, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, age, physical/mental disability, marital/domestic partner status, military and veteran status, height, weight or any other such characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. This Policy applies to any employment, donor or volunteering opportunity (including but not limited to recruitment, hire, employment, program participation, promotion, salary, benefits, termination and all other terms and conditions of employment or service as a volunteer).