The Maryland Heritage Areas Program is seeking candidates for its 2026 Impact Internship.

The Impact Intern will lead the development of an interactive ArcGIS StoryMap that documents and visualizes the 30-year impact of the Maryland Heritage Areas statewide grant program. The intern will help transform data, project files, and field visits into a compelling digital narrative that demonstrates geographic reach, community impact, and long-term outcomes. This role combines research, data management, digital storytelling, GIS mapping, writing, and field experience. 

In addition to developing the ArcGIS StoryMap, the intern will help translate the 30-year impact of the grant program into engaging, platform-ready content for social media. This ensures the research and storytelling reach broader public audiences in accessible, compelling ways. 

A typical week may include:

• Entering and cleaning grant data in spreadsheets
• Meeting with program staff to clarify historical program details
• Drafting project highlight narratives
• Editing and uploading content into the ArcGIS StoryMap platform
• Conducting virtual or in-person interviews with grantees
• Preparing for or attending site visits with grantees
• Taking photographs/video for content creation during site visits
• Testing map layers and refining user experience elements  

The intern will receive guidance but will also be encouraged to work independently, propose creative approaches, and take ownership of the project structure. By the end of the summer, the intern will have created a lasting digital resource that demonstrates three decades of public investment in heritage preservation. This internship offers meaningful, portfolio-ready work with real statewide visibility and long-term institutional value.  

• Interest in public history, preservation, cultural heritage, planning, or GIS
• Strong writing and research skills
• Detail-oriented and comfortable working with data
• Interest in storytelling through maps and digital media
• Willingness to conduct fieldwork and interviews 
• Familiarity with social media and content creation  

Application items should be sent by e-mail to Martha Waldron, Program Officer, at: martha.waldron@maryland.gov.   In your application, please include the following:

• Cover Letter (statement, in the form of a letter, explaining how you will potentially benefit from the position and how the Maryland Heritage Areas Program will benefit from your participation)
• Resume
• Two letters of recommendation from a faculty member from current or most recent school, or a professional familiar with your knowledge, skills, abilities, and interests  

The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) supports historic preservation and revitalization by providing funding and resources to care for historic sites. MHT serves as the State Historic Preservation Office.