Data Visualization Intern
Title: Data Visualization & Solutions Intern
Location: Fort Benning, Georgia
Host Organization: Maneuver Center of Excellence (MCOE) – Chief Data Office / Directorates and Staff Sections
Partner Institution: Columbus State University (CSU)
Compensation: Unpaid (for Academic Credit)
Duration: Not to exceed 130 total hours over the semester period (schedule flexible based on academic calendar)
Internship Credit: Academic credit through CSU’s approved internship/practicum program
Position Summary
The Maneuver Center of Excellence (MCOE) at Fort Benning, in collaboration with Columbus State University, seeks Data Visualization Interns to support directorates, staff sections, and operational leaders in the development of dashboard tools and data-driven decision-making frameworks.
Interns will work closely with the MCOE Chief Data Officer (CDO) and staff leadership to design, build, and refine visual analytics products, data frameworks, Power Apps, and data flow applications that enhance organizational efficiency, resource management, training readiness, and operational outcomes.
Interns who successfully complete the program will receive a formal performance appraisal and a letter of recommendation supporting future employment or academic advancement.
Duties and Responsibilities
Dashboard and Visualization Development
- Collaborate with assigned directorates and staff sections to identify key data requirements and decision support needs.
- Assist with the design and construction of dashboards using tools such as Microsoft Power BI, Tableau, or similar platforms.
- Translate raw data into visually accessible, user-friendly reporting products.
- Maintain version control and update data sets as needed.
Data Analysis and Storytelling
- Assist in cleaning, organizing, and preparing data sets for visualization.
- Develop narratives and insights based on visualization outcomes to inform leader decision-making.
- Support the CDO and directorate leads in establishing standardized metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs).
Data Solutions Development
- Assist in the design and development of data frameworks to support data integration and governance.
- Contribute to the development of low-code/no-code applications using Power Apps to streamline data input, access, and workflows.
- Support the automation of data processes using Power Automate or similar tools to improve data flow and efficiency.
- Assist with the testing and documentation of data solutions.
Operational Integration
- Attend key planning meetings and working groups to understand operational requirements.
- Provide visualization support for decision briefings, staff updates, and operational reviews.
- Recommend dashboard and data solution enhancements based on evolving directorate needs and data availability.
Professional Development and Knowledge Sharing
- Participate in weekly sync meetings with the Chief Data Officer and data working groups.
- Maintain project documentation, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and lessons learned.
- Deliver a capstone presentation summarizing internship contributions and future recommendations for data-driven decision support.
Minimum Qualifications
- Current enrollment in the Computer Science, Information Systems, Data Analytics, CyberNexus, or Business Analytics program at Columbus State University.
- Working knowledge of at least one data visualization platform (e.g., Power BI, Tableau, Google Data Studio).
- Familiarity with basic data analysis techniques (filtering, aggregation, trend analysis).
- Basic understanding of data modeling concepts.
- Familiarity with Power Apps or Power Automate is preferred.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Current or prior coursework in data analytics, statistics, or information technology preferred.
- Ability to pass background screening to gain access to Fort Benning information systems and facilities.
Work Schedule
- Total Commitment: 130 hours during the semester.
- Schedule: Flexible, coordinated with MCOE Chief Data Office and CSU academic advisors.
- Active participation in staff meetings, project updates, and milestone reviews is expected.
Capstone Project Requirement
- Design and deliver an operational or administrative dashboard, Power App, automated data flow, or enhanced feature for an assigned Directorate or staff section.
- Provide a written summary explaining the dashboard or feature’s purpose, intended user base, and recommended sustainment actions.
- Conduct a final presentation of dashboard results and internship outcomes to the MCOE Chief Data Officer and directorate leadership.
Important Notes
- This internship is unpaid. Students earn academic credit through Columbus State University.
- Interns will not have access to classified information and must operate within approved information security and operational guidelines.
- Interns are expected to maintain a professional demeanor, confidentiality, and uphold Army values throughout the assignment.
- All work products and deliverables remain the property of the U.S. Army Maneuver Center of Excellence.