As they begin to wrap up their placements with companies based all around the world, the inaugural class of the Australian Institute of Sports (AIS) Virtual Internship program is encouraging all athletes to apply for the 2023 intake.

Launched in October 2021 and delivered through the Australian Institute of Sport Professional Development Team, the program aims to prepare participants for their post-athletic careers. This accessible internship gives athletes the opportunity to gain firsthand work experience in their field of study while allowing for the flexibility to fit the placement around their demanding schedules.

In between training and competing on the World Cup Tour, dual world champion Freestyle Skier Laura Peel completed a virtual Accounting Associate Internship with South African company ACCUledgr.

“As an athlete who spends 9+ months a year on the road, gaining experience in a traditional workplace has always been a challenge. A Virtual Internship was a great opportunity to be able to gain some experience while continuing in my sport,” said Peel, who produced the highest scoring jump of the season to win gold at the World Cup aerial skiing event in Le Relais, Canada during the course of her internship.

“The internship gave me confidence that I could be successful in a different kind of workplace in life after sport.”

For Water Polo athlete and Aussie Stinger Madeleine Steere, the program offered a flexible opportunity to gain industry-specific experience.

“I was able to work within the pharmaceutical industry, liaise with an international company, develop professional connections and learn valuable skills for the future,” said Steere.

“Without this virtual internship program, I would not have been able to begin the transition from student to a working professional. With such a busy training and competition schedule, it is difficult to find flexible work. This virtual program gave me the opportunity to enter the pharmaceutical industry whilst still prioritising my sport.”

Skeleton racer Nick Timmings, who completed his internship with Canadian sports technology analytics company, GameFace has encouraged other athletes considering the program to apply.

“If there’s any advice I can give to athletes considering doing this Virtual Internship program, it’s not to worry if you think you don’t have enough time or consistent hours to be able to complete this program. The companies are more than happy to work with your schedule, and you’ll surprise yourself with how organised you can be when needed.”

Get Involved

EOIs for the next Virtual Internship intake are open until Friday 9 March.

A webinar for interested athletes will be held on Tuesday 28 February 6pm AEDT, please contact career_and_education@ausport.gov.au or your current AW&E Adviser for the link and further information.

Visit the AIS website for more on our athlete personal development programs.