GD Mission Systems Intern Feature: Ashley Pe?a Valadez

Ashley Pe?a Valadez ?is an Engineering intern working out of the Pittsfield, Massachusetts, office. She’s an aerospace engineering major at Wichita State University and will graduate in 2026.

“I heard of General Dynamics Mission Systems' internship opportunities at the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers ( SHPE ) Hispanics Leading in STEM 2023 National Convention at the General Dynamics booth during the career fair," Ashley said. “The culture is what made me apply here."

She was looking for a place that advocated for employee growth and development and was impressed by the different opportunities available to interns and early career engineers at GD Mission Systems.

Ashley is interning with Martine & Strategic Systems' Surface Ship Systems this summer. She is working with both the Emergency Medical Ship (EMS) and Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF) teams.

“My experience has been very positive. Everyone is so dedicated to the mission here at GD Mission Systems, and that passion has transferred to me as well," Ashley said.

When asked what she likes about the internship so far, Ashley highlighted the activities that have been available at her site. These activities allow the interns to see what goes on at the site outside their team and to meet people across departments.

“So far, I have participated in the Second Annual Cornhole Tournament and Diversity and Inclusion Potluck, and I look forward to volunteering my time with the many volunteering opportunities the intern program has offered us," she said.

This summer, Ashley looks forward to learning as much as she can about her program and other programs throughout GD Mission Systems.

“I also look forward to networking and making lasting connections with other fellow interns and employees," she said.

When not in the office, Ashley has been enjoying exploring the Berkshires!

Join us in welcoming Ashley and the other GD Mission Systems summer interns!

For more than five years, General Dynamics has been listed among the Top 100 Internship Programs in the Nation.

This year all our business units are collectively nominated again!

Search 'General Dynamics' and you can vote daily until July 18th: https://www.nationalinternday.com/employer-vote