At AAC Clyde Space we believe that interns are more than just students, they are the future of our industry. That’s why we provide hands-on opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute to real projects that make an impact. 

In this blog, you’ll hear directly from our intern Marie-France Kembe, about her experiences, challenges, and key takeaways from their time with us. Whether it’s developing new skills, working alongside industry experts, or getting a glimpse into the exciting world of Space, their journey is one worth sharing! 

Read on to see what it’s really like to be an intern at AAC Clyde Space 🚀 

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?

I’m currently studying Business Analysis and Technology and Economics, with a minor in Finance. Throughout my studies, I’ve developed a strong interest in how businesses leverage digital transformation to improve processes and enhance decision-making. I’ve had the opportunity to work on various projects that combine business strategy, technology, and analytical thinking, and my internship experience further deepened my understanding of how these elements come together in real-world applications 

What inspired you to apply for this internship?

I was drawn to this internship because it aligned with my interest in data-related tasks, business process optimisation and how technology drives decision-making. I wanted to gain hands-on experience in how businesses integrate technology to improve efficiency and communication to drive growth. 

What are you currently studying, and how did this internship fit into your academic or career goals? 

I am currently completing my BA (Hons) in Business Analysis and Technology and Economics at the University of Strathclyde. My academic background allows me to understand both technical and analytical aspects of businesses, which helps in optimising operations and technology solutions. This internship was a great opportunity to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, particularly in business processes and technology implementation. It reinforced my interest in pursuing a career in consulting or fintech. 

Can you describe a typical day in your internship? 

A typical day involved a mix of collaborating with global teams, attending stakeholder meetings, and working on the intranet development. I spent time gathering and analysing user feedback and ensuring the intranet met business needs. I integrated web widgets to enhance functionality also. Each day was a blend of problem-solving, communication and hands-on development. 

What is one project or task you’ve worked on during your internship that you’re especially proud of?

I’m particularly proud of designing the employee intranet. This project required working with global teams, gathering stakeholder insights, and ensuring the platform aligned with business objectives. Seeing how it would improve internal communication and operational efficiency as we went along made it a rewarding experience. 

What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned during your internship? 

I was surprised by how vital effective communication matters in a tech-driven role. Gathering requirements and translating stakeholder feedback into meaningful changes was just as important as the technical work itself. 

Were there any challenges you faced during your internship? How did you overcome them? 

One challenge was working with teams in different time zones, which made collaboration tricky at times. I tackled this by staying proactive with communication, clearly documenting everything, and being flexible with meeting schedules. It was a valuable lesson in adaptability and teamwork. 

What skills have you gained or improved upon through this experience? 

I’ve developed strong analytical and problem-solving skills; this experience has improved my ability to gather and interpret business data and enhanced my stakeholder communication and consulting abilities which is valuable for my future career. 

How has this internship helped you grow personally or professionally? 

This internship has been instrumental in both my professional and personal development. Working on the employee intranet project, I gained valuable insights into how technology and data can improve internal communication and streamline business processes. I honed my skills in business analysis, understanding stakeholder needs, and translating them into actionable solutions to enhance internal systems and workflows. 

Beyond technical skills, this internship has helped me become more confident in professional settings. Initially, I was more reserved in meetings, but over time, I became more comfortable sharing ideas, discussing technical solutions, and collaborating with stakeholders. The ability to speak up confidently and take ownership of tasks has been one of the most rewarding aspects of this internship, and it’s prepared me to approach future challenges with greater self-assurance. 

Is there a team member or mentor who had a significant impact on your internship experience? What did you learn from them? 

Yes, my manager had a significant impact on my internship experience, they provided unwavering support from day one. They helped me quickly settle in and always took the time of day to help with any challenges I faced. Their approach made me feel comfortable and confident in the workplace.  

What stood out the most was how they balanced their own work, providing guidance all the while giving me the freedom to explore solutions on my own. This approach not only helped me develop problem-solving skills but also taught me the importance of trusting my instincts and asking the right questions when I needed support. Through their guidance, I learned to take ownership of tasks, collaborate effectively with others, and navigate challenges with confidence. Their mentorship had a lasting impact, and I’m grateful for the way they helped me grow both professionally and personally throughout the internship to the very end.

How has this internship influenced your future career plans? 

It made me realize how much I enjoy working on projects that bridge the gap between business needs and technical solutions. I’m now considering roles in business analysis and/or consulting. 

What’s the most fun or unexpected thing that happened during your time here? 

One of the most unexpected and fascinating experiences was getting a tour of the clean room where the team designs and builds the satellite dishes that are sent into space. It was incredible to witness first-hand how a concept transforms into something so complex and impactful. Seeing the intricate work that goes into creating something that plays a greater role in how we understand the world we live in really made me appreciate the scale and innovation involved in the work at Clyde Space. It was a reminder of how we’re part of a bigger picture, where small contributions can help drive remarkable technological advancements. 

If you could describe your internship experience in one word, what would it be and why? 

Insightful – because this experience truly opened my eyes to how all the departments within an organisation are interconnected, beyond what textbooks and lectures can teach. It was a powerful realisation to see how each team, no matter how different their role, contributes to the larger vision and goals. The experience gave me a deeper understanding of how collaboration, communication, and shared objectives drive success. It was an eye-opening journey that helped me appreciate the complexity of business operations, and it’s something I’ll carry with me throughout my career.