Rackner AI Innovation Fellowship (Startup Accelerator Internship)

Title: Rackner AI Innovation Fellowship (Startup Accelerator Internship)Location: College Park (Hybrid – ~50% Minimum In-Person)Who We AreRackner is a cloud-native software consultancy delivering innovative solutions for startups, enterprises, and the public sector. We are a fast-growing, mission-driven organization focused on solving complex challenges through cutting-edge technologies.Our expertise spans end-to-end application development, DevSecOps, AI/ML, and systems architecture, with a strong emphasis on cloud-first and cost-effective innovation. We partner with organizations ranging from early-stage startups to large federal agencies, enabling digital transformation and delivering high-impact, scalable solutions.Position OverviewThe Rackner AI Innovation Fellowship is a hands-on research and development program designed to explore and build next-generation solutions using artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and emerging technologies.This fellowship offers a unique opportunity for students and early-career technologists to work in a startup-like environment while gaining real-world experience developing impactful solutions aligned with Rackner’s mission.The Program Runs Year-round, WithPart-time participation during the academic yearFull-time engagement during the summerFellows will work in collaborative teams (ideally groups of 2–3 participants) to take ideas from concept to prototype, focusing on real-world applications, scalability, and measurable impact. Teams that already have strong working relationships are encouraged to apply together.Each team will receive funding for cloud infrastructure and AI tools to support development. At the conclusion of the program, teams will present their solutions, findings, and working prototypes to Rackner leadership.Key ResponsibilitiesCollaborate in small teams to design, develop, and prototype innovative AI/ML and cloud-based solutionsConduct research on emerging technologies, including LLMs, cloud platforms, and cybersecurity frameworksBuild and deploy applications using modern cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP)Develop proof-of-concept solutions with measurable impactApply software engineering best practices (version control, testing, documentation)Analyze technical feasibility and potential business value of solutionsPresent findings, demos, and final prototypes to leadershipManage project timelines and contribute to team-based innovationFocus AreasLarge Language Models (LLMs) and AI-enabled applicationsCloud-native development and distributed systemsCybersecurity and secure system designB2B platforms and enterprise solutionsGovernment and public sector technologyQualifications (Required)Must reside in a HUBZone (Verify eligibility: https://maps.certify.sba.gov/hubzone/map)Ability to participate in a hybrid model (~50% in-person in College Park)Currently enrolled student or recent graduate in a relevant fieldPreferred QualificationsBackground in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, or BusinessStrong preference for candidates with software development experienceExperience with programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, or JavaFamiliarity with AI/ML tools (TensorFlow, PyTorch, HuggingFace)Knowledge of cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)Understanding of APIs, microservices, or distributed systemsCandidate Profile (What We’re Looking For)HUBZone candidates strongly encouraged to apply (Goal: Build a cohort of at least 9 HUBZone participants, including current interns)Team-oriented applicantsPreference for candidates applying in teams of 2–3Teams with prior working relationships or strong collaboration experience are highly encouragedBalanced technical + business mindsetIdeal team composition: 2 technical (software-focused) + 1 business-oriented memberCandidates with business, product, or entrepreneurial experience are a plusHigh energy and motivationDemonstrated strong work ethicPassion for innovation, problem-solving, and building new solutionsAbility to thrive in fast-paced, ambiguous, startup-like environmentsStartup Accelerator OpportunityParticipants will have the opportunity to convert their project into a startup by buying back their intellectual property (IP) in exchange for equity, creating a direct pathway from fellowship to entrepreneurship.Additional BenefitsIndustry-leading weekly pay scheduleHybrid work environment with strong in-person collaborationAccess to cutting-edge AI tools and cloud resourcesProfessional development and certification supportOpportunity to build real-world portfolio projectsExposure to startup and enterprise innovationHome office supportWhy Join Rackner?This fellowship is more than an internship, it’s an opportunity to innovate, build, and potentially launch your own venture while working on impactful technologies that support both commercial and federal missions.