Reviewed by: Cindy Hatcher
FuelAL 2025 is the ultimate FREE summer experience for interns in Alabama
Reading time: 3 minutes
Sponsored

College students interning in Alabama this summer have an incredible opportunity to enhance their experience outside of work—Fuel Alabama (FuelAL) is back for 2025!
This free statewide program connects interns to Alabama’s communities, industries and fellow young professionals through networking events, mentorship and exciting social programming across 10 unique regions.
What is FuelAL?

FuelAL is a free statewide program designed to help summer interns connect with Alabama’s industries, communities, and fellow young professionals.
The program encourages students to consider Alabama as the ideal place to grow their careers through:
- Professional development
- Mentorship
- Networking + fun social activities
- Community engagement
“FuelAL opened my eyes to various career and recreational opportunities that even I, as a Birmingham native, never knew existed.
Before this program, I thought that I needed to leave my home state to launch my professional career. Now, that’s no longer the case. As I look beyond my graduation in May 2025, I intend to keep Alabama on my list of places to begin my career.”
Lauren Perry, 2024 Fuel AL intern, Vanderbilt University
10 host communities, endless opportunities


This summer, FuelAL is expanding its reach to 10 host communities across Alabama.
Interns in these cities will have access to exclusive networking events, professional development opportunities, and social experiences that showcase what life in Alabama has to offer.
Apply for these 2025 host communities:
- Auburn + Opelika: Griffin O’Connor + Trevor Cook – Apply Here
- Bibb County: Brian Hilson – Apply Here
- Birmingham: Trevor Sutton – Apply Here
- Calhoun County: Linda Hearn, Laurel Harp, and Savannah Dempsey – Apply Here
- Dothan: Jessica Steltenpohl – Apply Here
- Huntsville: Annie Davis – Apply Here
- Mobile: Abbey Huguley – Apply Here
- River Region: Kenneth (Kenny) Ward – Apply Here
- Tuscaloosa: Barkley Garrett – Apply Here
The ultimate intern networking experience
Beyond local programming, FuelAL will host two statewide summits, bringing together interns from across Alabama to connect, collaborate and engage with industry leaders.
2025 Summit dates:
- June 13-15
- July 18-19
These events provide access to key decision-makers, career insights and a deeper understanding of Alabama’s top industries.
Interns have the chance to gain valuable opportunities, including:
- Exclusive networking
- Career panels
- Social events
- + more!
Why FuelAL is a must-join program for Summer interns

FuelAL is more than just an internship experience—it’s an opportunity for students to get involved in Alabama’s booming industries, from mobility and defense to life sciences and IT.
By introducing students to local businesses, cultural experiences and career pathways, FuelAL helps solidify Alabama’s reputation as a launchpad for young professionals.
Here’s a look at FuelAL’s impact, by the numbers:
- Nearly 900 students have participated in FuelAL since its launch in 2022.
- 74% of alumni said FuelAL directly influenced their decision to stay or move to Alabama after graduation.
- 40% of alumni have accepted full-time jobs in Alabama after participating in the program.
“Put simply, FuelAL is an investment in Alabama’s economic future. By connecting students with industries, communities and career opportunities, we’re ensuring they see Alabama as a place to build their lives.
We’ve touched nearly 900 students since we started this program, and we plan on surpassing 1,000 this summer.”
Estes Hughes, Vice President of Innovation & Talent, EDPA
Interested in getting involved? Applications for host community programs are open now! Learn more details on FuelAL and how to apply.
Sponsored by: