DVIDS – News – SMART Scholar Immerses in Software Business

Recipients of the Department of Defense Service Scholarship Program for Science, Mathematics and Transformational Studies got a glimpse into the inner workings of the 76th Software Engineering Group during an intensive, one-day training June 6 at Tinker Air Force Base.

The SMART Scholarship is a combined education and workforce development opportunity for science, technology, engineering and mathematics students.

These 13 scholars will intern in the summer of 2025 with the Air Force Sustainment Center’s 76th SWEG.

“This will be a great opportunity for our scholars to see what it means to serve their country,” said Dr. Christian Olivero, 76th SWEG Director. “We look at this internship not in terms of what you can do for us, but what we can do for you.”

The SMART program currently offers scholarships to undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students pursuing degrees in one of 24 STEM fields. SMART Scholars receive full tuition coverage, an annual stipend and a guaranteed job with the Department of Defense upon graduation.

“Our Air Force has an urgent need for electrical engineers, computer scientists and a growing number of other STEM-related professionals,” said Lt. Col. Huy Le, 76th SWEG vice commander.

“Working here gives you the opportunity to experience different aspects of how we play our role in protecting our country,” Le told the scholars.

“SMART Scholars receive many financial benefits during their program, but the real benefits are the mentorship opportunities and networking skills they learn,” said Marlon Wilson, Scientist and Engineer Workforce Renewal and SMART program manager for the Office of Engineering and Technology Management.

“I’ve had the opportunity to run Tinker’s SMART program for four years and am continually amazed at the talent and innovative capabilities of our people,” Wilson added.

SMART is a one-to-one commitment, meaning that for every year of degree funding, scholars commit to working one year as a civilian employee with the Department of Defense.

“We are a workforce responsible for solving our nation’s most complex challenges by sustaining and developing the next generation of defense technologies to deter and defeat those who seek to do harm to our nation,” Olivero said. “This program gives us the opportunity to prepare the next generation for full-time employment and familiarize them with working in the Air Force.”

For more information about the SMART Scholarship Program, please visit https://www.smartscholarship.org/.