Student Programs

Strengthening the National Security Workforce with DoD CDAO

PSL’s Student Programs create a vital connection between future talent and the current defense workforce, serving the needs of the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, and the defense industrial base. Our pipeline focuses on early outreach (K-12), college pathways through our Gateway to Hire program, and supporting the current defense workforce.

PSL Student Programs Pipeline

For over 75 years, NMSU students have been at the forefront of applied research, with nearly 20,000 students and co-ops employed during this time. PSL’s initiatives benefit not only students but also educators, faculty, and defense employers who play a critical role in their success.

Through congressional support, PSL has partnered with the DoD’s Chief Digital AI Office to create a regionally aligned recruiting effort, focused on national security, and the federal workforce. In September 2024, the initiative expanded to include UTEP, NM Tech, and military installations across the Southwest.

Early Outreach (K-12)

Programs that Inspire the Next Generation of Innovators

PSL is currently engaged in two impactful high school initiatives:

  1. Las Cruces Public Schools (LCPS) Work-Based Learning (WBL):
    WBL offers students in Las Cruces Public Schools hands-on experience in career fields they’re interested in. This program allows students to earn graduation credits by working in environments relevant to their career goals.

  2. STEM Mavericks Summer Camp:
    In collaboration with Trenchant Analytics, PSL hosts this summer camp to immerse students in STEM activities. STEM Mavericks is designed to spark a passion for science, technology, engineering, and math through real-world applications and interactive projects.Join the STEM Mavericks Interest List

Gateway to Hire

Building Pathways to National Security Careers

Since 1946, PSL has supported students in gaining real-world experience and connecting with national security employers. Our CREW Program provides a pathway for students interested in national security careers, offering unique experiences that help bridge the gap between academia and industry.

 

Explore CREW

Learn More about how CREW facilitates experiential learning, initiates security clearance, and deepens understanding of national security.

 

Special Note: 
PSL is proud to have been the early pilot for DoD's Defense Civilian Training Corp Program.  Through funding from DoD's Chief Digital AI Office.   PSL was asked to utilize our tested and established CREW Program for two cohorts of what would be called DCTCx. From September 2022-May 2024,  Twenty-six (26) DCTCx students received training in national security and defense acquisition and completed experiential learning experiences with DoD partners.  Capstone projects and internships/Co-Ops were sponsored by White Sands Missile Range Test Center, DEVCOM Analysis Center and Naval Surface Warfare Center (Port Hueneme Division, White Sands Detachment)
CREW Triangle: Experiential Learning Opportunity to National Security Affairs Seminar to Security Clearance Initiation

Current Workforce

The Defense Leadership Certificate (DLC) Program developed by NMSU-PSL in collaboration with Chieftain Elite Consulting, supports the professional growth of the Defense Civilian workforce. Aligned with WSMR leadership priorities, the program provides tailored training to address workforce needs across diverse DoD missions.

Connect

PSL Scholarships

PSL is the steward of 6 scholarship funds and has the opportunity each academic year to award scholarships to eligible students. 
Jed & Martha Durrenberger Memorial Endowed Scholarship Fund
Phillip & Edna Manz PSL Endowed Scholarship
Physical Science Laboratory Employees Endowed Scholarship
SGI Co-op Student Endowment Scholarship Fund
Skaggs PSL Experiential Learning Endowed Scholarship
Lois I. and Leonard R. Sugerman PSL Scholarship Fund

Thanks to our generous donors, in 2020, the PSL scholarship selection committee awarded 16 scholarships totaling $8,000! Students were awarded from $250 to $750. APPLY NOW!  Scholar Dollar$ application is live and the priority deadline for the 2025/26 Academic Year is March 1st.

 

Tips from the PSL Scholarship Coordinator & Selection Committee

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Tip #1

Fill out ALL questions thoughtfully—especially the personal statement! This is an opportunity to share your story and why a scholarship would help you meet your personal and professional goals. Make it count!