Boeing Internship Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Boeing Co. interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. Walk us through a time when guidelines or rules changed mid-project. How did you work around the situation?
How to Answer
As an intern, having the gift of adaptability is very important. During the ten to twelve weeks of your Boeing internship, you will face many new situations that will require you to pivot and adjust.
Show the interviewer that you can accept that change happens. In the workplace, changes can happen at any point in a project. Show that you have a strategy in place to effectively deal with change in a professional manner.
Remember: Boeing uses behavioral-based questions to conduct interviews, and they advise using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, and Result) method when responding. Be sure your answer is highly specific and includes quantifiable details and tangible results.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my current role, there are a lot of regulation and internal compliance steps, so I have become very accustomed to last-minute changes. My current employer recently asked me to craft a project change request form, so it's excellent timing for a question such as this. When guidelines change mid-project, I ask essential queries such as who is requesting the change, who the change will impact, and a highly detailed description of the proposed amendment. Now, I understand its best to put emotions or disappointment aside and focus on the core 'why' of the shift or change. Once I have clarification on these factors, I can proceed with the utmost confidence and professionalism."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
2. Tell us about one task that you wish you could perform every day.
How to Answer
The purpose of this question is for the interviewer to uncover some of your greatest strengths. Chances are, the task that you discuss is one that you perform the best because we all prefer to put our attention where we excel. Think about your favorite days at work or school, and what they entail. Maybe you love solving product or performance-related issues. Perhaps you ost enjoy training a coworker or fellow student on a new software update. Or, maybe giving outstanding presentations brings you to life! Whatever your answer, be sure to show enthusiasm for your favorite task.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I love to learn and conduct research, which will be beneficial when entering an internship. If I could perform one task more often, it would be nearly any form of research and data analysis. I like taking product information and breaking down performance issues. I look forward to being part of the research and analysis at Boeing throughout this internship."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
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3. How often do you give yourself challenges that stretch beyond your comfort zone?
How to Answer
Your response to this question will show the interviewer how eager you are to grow in your career, and how invested you will be in this internship. When we sit content with our tasks, day in and day out, life can begin to feel mundane, and we often become unhappy with our work. As Boeing is aware, people who often face challenges in the workplace tend to be happier and stay in their jobs longer.
Think about the last time you performed a task that was outside of your comfort zone. Perhaps you helped a fellow student reach a deadline, but it required you to learn a new skill. Maybe you volunteered to lead a group project when you typically do not take on a team lead position. Whatever your example is, be sure to show enthusiasm for growth within your budding career.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I always welcome new challenges; whether I give them to myself or one of my professors presents me with them. The last time I gave myself a challenge outside of my comfort zone was when I committed to doubling my study time for an entire month. I wanted to see how the increase in activity could boost my grades. So, rather than studying 14 hours per week, I made sure to study for 28 hours. Over the month, my confidence skyrocketed, which I found to be very exciting and rewarding. Although this increase meant that I often studied late and missed out on some fun extracurricular activities, the reward was well worth the sacrifice in the end."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
4. Do you consider yourself an overachiever? Why or why not?
How to Answer
Boeing wants to find the best interns who will thrive in their highly-competitive and ever-changing industry. When approaching this question, it's important first to define what you believe to be overachieving. By definition, overachievers 'perform better or achieve more success than expected.' Show that you are a high-performing team player who can still accept feedback with grace and work hard while avoiding burnout.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I do consider myself an overachiever because I like to take my goals and targets and achieve more than expected. One example of this is with my overall grades and my goal of maintaining a GPA in the 3.9 range. With that said, I do not struggle with feelings of perfectionism. I actively seek feedback from my professors so that I can continually improve. It's important to me that I achieve and not fail; however, I still understand that failure is a part of life. When I do not achieve a goal, I can pick myself back up and try again."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
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Marcie's Feedback
5. What are your primary goals after graduation?
How to Answer
Your answer to this question must be as specific and detailed as possible. Giving a general answer such as, 'I want to work for Boeing' is not going to cut it. If needed, take the time to research SMART goals and follow this methodology for crafting your response.
S: Specific
M: Measurable
A: Attainable
R: Relevant
T: Time-Based
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"After graduating with a Master of Applied Science, I would like to be eligible for an opportunity with Boeing such as an Entry Level Physics Engineer role. Within four years, I aim to work my way into a mid-level opportunity. I will achieve this by strengthening my knowledge in research projects, improving manufacturing processes, and learning more about component engineering."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Marcie's Feedback
6. What questions do you have for us regarding this internship at Boeing?
How to Answer
It is essential to have at least three questions prepared for your interviewer, just in case the interviewer addresses one or more of your questions throughout the interview process. Ensure that your queries are engaging, thoughtful, unique to the internship you're after, and not easily answered through simple research.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Can you share with me one success story of a former Boeing intern that stands out to you? What has been the most significant innovation in this department this year? Are there any questions that I can answer more clearly for you, today? What percentage of Boeing interns do you into full-time roles after graduation?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
7. What knowledge do you want to gain from this internship with Boeing?
How to Answer
Think about your end career goal and how the knowledge learned in this internship will help you to achieve these goals. Where do you feel you need to strengthen your knowledge base, and what are you looking forward to the most when it comes to this internship opportunity? Be as specific as possible since a general answer will not hit the mark.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"My long term educational goal is to achieve my Master of Engineering and work in the aerospace industry for the extension of my career. Although it is a couple of years away, I am already thinking about the topic I wish to dive into for my thesis. For that reason, the top skills I want to gain from this internship include foundational knowledge in spacecraft dynamics, autonomous space robotics, and microsatellites."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
8. Share a story of a time you overcame major disappointment in your life.
How to Answer
Storytelling can feel very intimidating. You may have trouble knowing where to begin and where to end! The key to making your answer impactful is to engage the interviewer. First, set the stage by talking about the overall situation. Then, discuss what you did to overcome the situation. Lastly, be sure to talk about the outcome, including any valuable lessons you may have learned.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I come from a hard-working immigrant family, and obtaining post-secondary education is incredibly important to my parents. Upon the first try, I did not make it into my top choice university. This situation was incredibly disappointing because I worked tirelessly to keep my grades high, I took the time to volunteer, and I built up my experience by shadowing professionals in the engineering space. I felt that my application was strong. The feedback given to me was that the types of courses I took in high school did not meet the academic threshold even tough I performed well. Luckily, I earned acceptance into my second choice school. To overcome the disappointment, I decided to put my full enthusiasm into this experience and be thankful for the opportunities presented to me as a second-generation American citizen."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
9. How would you approach motivating other team members?
How to Answer
The great news is that you don't have to be an official leader or manager to motivate others successfully. Offering a listening ear or providing words of encouragement to your team members can make a world of difference. Sometimes, just being a positive influence and showing up to help is the best thing that you can do.
If you have worked in a leadership role, think of ways you helped set clear goals or helped individuals cultivate a new skill. Reflect on your experience and share how you have encouraged others to keep up the excellent work! Overall, you must show the hiring authorities at Boeing that you are a person who will promote collaboration and teamwork, two of the organizations' treasured values.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"If I saw a team member who I felt needed motivation, I would first encourage them by being kind, complimenting their work, sharing positive feedback, and helping them achieve their goals. At school and in my daily life, I consistently look for opportunities to make someone's day a little bit better, especially when they seem down or are being hard on themselves."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
10. Describe how you would handle a situation that you felt was holding you back at work.
How to Answer
Many things can threaten to hold us back at work, including uncooperative teammates, lack of process and resources, or little understanding of our job requirements. Some situations may feel out of your control; luckily, most of these situations are well within our control.
Talk to the interviewer about how you would handle a hypothetical situation at work that you felt was holding you back from being your most successful. Tell an engaging story, and be sure to express what you would do to make the best of the situation. This question is not a time to complain but rather show how you would rise above.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"If there were a situation that I felt was holding me back at work, I would first assess the core of the issue and then determine what factors I could control. I am a highly analytical person, so it would be essential to me that I fully understood the factors and reasoning surrounding the issue. I would begin by measuring the problem, evaluating my resolution options, and then defining a plan of action. Most important would be that I take a look internally and focus on the roadblocks that were caused by my own decisions. I would never blame anyone else's actions, direct or indirect, for holding me back. My progress is my responsibility."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
11. Tell us a personal story that paints a picture of you.
How to Answer
When you approach a personal story in an interview setting, it's important to remember that this story needs to circle back to your professional life in one way or another. Think of a genuine response that could include your time as a volunteer, your travels, your student experience, or the unique background in which you grew up. Allow the hiring authority to get to know you on a deeper, more meaningful level.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"As a sophomore in high school, I decided that I wanted to participate in a three-month student exchange program. My family is not wealthy, so I immediately knew that I needed to fundraise to be able to sustain myself financially during the experience. I chose to start a crowd-funding initiative on GoFundMe, outlining my reasoning for participating in the experience, and what I would aim to achieve while participating in the program. I reached my financial goal of $6,000 in just eight days, thanks to the generosity of my community, church, and the student body. As a thank-you for the support, I started a blog that allowed those who funded my journey to become part of it. It was important to me that I not only ask for help but that I continue to involve those who lifted me up in my journey in the first place. I will take this attitude of gratefulness into my internship, giving full thanks and respect to those at Boeing who commit to my career growth."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
12. Tell us about one accomplishment that you are most proud of.
How to Answer
Boeing seeks out interns who are eager and goal-oriented. Discussing your most significant achievement will give the interviewer a better idea of where you place your values. It will also show the interviewer more about your personality, how you like to be motivated, and how to coach you in the future. Share with the hiring authority one accomplishment that you have worked hard to achieve. Paint a picture of the achievement while including why it was so vital for you to succeed.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am very proud of graduating high school as an honors student while still working part-time on evenings and weekends, and being the captain of my soccer team. I was top of my class while juggling many extracurricular activities. I earned these grades through time-management practices and blocking off non-negotiable time each day for my studies. This achievement showed me that I could dedicate myself to my career and reach the goals that I set for myself. It felt great to accomplish so much."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
13. Boeing performs drug testing for all external hires, including internships. Are you willing to comply with any and all background checks?
How to Answer
Your response to this question should be to the point, agreeable, and straightforward. Seeing that you are applying to Boeing, and starting a career in aerospace, engineering, and defense, it should go without saying that you have a clean record and do not partake in illegal activity or substances.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"My criminal history is clear, and I do not participate in any illegal substances or activities. I am ready to comply with any background checks that you require of me."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
14. What, or who, inspires you the most in your career?
How to Answer
This personal-based question will allow the Boeing interviewer to understand better your perspective on life, success, and where you derive your motivation. Maybe you look up to a grandparent or parent who was a hard worker, or a teacher who encouraged you to follow your career dreams.
Whomever this inspiring person may be, remember that the interviewer is looking for a heartfelt response. If you do not have one particular influence, your life's inspiration can come from an author, a mentor, a celebrity - literally anyone who speaks to your mission and desires in a profound and meaningful way.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"On weekends, I volunteer for a foundation that gives back to adults with special needs. I spend my Saturday afternoons reading to others, doing puzzles, teaching new skills, and building a community of friends. What this special needs community has taught me is so special, and each person I work with inspires me to see the brighter, lighter side of life and to be thankful for the opportunities I have. These individuals inspire me to make sure I make an impact on this world and give back whenever possible. Because of this experience, I am looking for opportunities with a company that embraces inclusion as I do. I believe that Boeing emulates these values in a multitude of ways, including your commitment to funding education opportunities and other worthy causes."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
15. Why do you want to complete an internship with Boeing?
How to Answer
Landing an internship with Boeing is a highly competitive situation. Although simple, this question is incredibly important to answer with impact. Comparing yourself against potentially thousands of candidates, what makes you the most passionate about this incredible opportunity?
If you are lucky enough to land an internship interview with Boeing, be sure to put in a solid effort and a lot of research time into nailing the interview. Think about how this internship will positively help your career.
While your passion and excitement for the internship are essential, have some hard facts ready as well. For instance, saying, 'I have heard great things about Boeing, and I know I would be a great fit for this internship,' is not very specific. If you find recent news articles or press releases which talk about Boeing's accomplishments, mention this and how it impacts your desire to be a part of their company mission.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have watched hours of YouTube videos related to the successes of past interns at Boeing. One video that stood out for me was the story of a young student who participated in Boeing's Core Plus Aerospace internship while still attending high school. He received the opportunity to work alongside Boeing's trainers, and learn new electrical skills related to aerospace. I am eager to gain knowledge in this internship, such as the fundamentals of electrical engineering that will set me up for success and launch my career. I understand that there are future opportunities to join different branches of Boeing post-graduation, which is a fascinating prospect as a future electrical engineer. Upon looking into Boeing further, your commitment to building future leaders is impressive. I have researched Boeing's 'Learn Together' program and find it profound how the company encourages its people to explore new roles throughout their careers. Even providing access to course work unrelated to their current job, empowering your employees to go follow their career desires seems top of mind for Boeing."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
16. Talk about a time when you took charge of a situation but the outcome was disappointing. How did you bounce back?
How to Answer
When selecting interns, Boeing interviewers set out to choose those who have confidence in their leadership, and the ability to bounce back when things do not go as planned. Hiring authorities understand that people in leadership will have successes and failures. Show that you can take those failures, learn from them, and move on with poise and confidence. Think about a time when your leadership plan didn't go as desired. Be sure to tell discuss what you learned from the scenario and what you would do better next time.
Remember: Boeing uses behavioral-based questions to conduct interviews, and they advise using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, and Result) method when responding. Be sure your answer is highly specific and includes quantifiable details and tangible results.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"As the Student Government President, I took control of our school's recruitment fair this year. It was not as successful as previous student recruitment fairs and, despite my best efforts, we didn't see the results or interest that we were hoping to garner. After taking a couple of days to review the situation, I realized that we didn't bring the energy that we could have for garnering face-to-face interest. I decided to bounce back and repair this situation by putting more time and attention to the online materials and resources that our school provides for prospective students. I realize now that, in addition to being fully prepared, bringing the right energy level is just as important to an events' success."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
17. Discuss a time when you failed at something. What did you learn, and how did you bounce back?
How to Answer
We have all faced failure in our lifetime. There is no need to be ashamed of defeat. Instead, what the interviewer is looking for is evidence that you can bounce back from perceived failure, with the most positive mindset possible. Give an example of a time when the outcome was not what you wanted it to be, but you were able to bounce back. Perhaps you were better off in the end, or you learned a valuable lesson!
Remember: Boeing uses behavioral-based questions to conduct interviews, and they advise using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, and Result) method when responding. Be sure your answer is highly specific and includes quantifiable details and tangible results.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"One of the more significant failures that I can think of was not completing my undergraduate degree as soon as expected. I encountered a few personal factors that pushed my completion date back one year, and I was also working part-time to pay for tuition, which demanded a lot of my time. Extending my completion date was humbling at the time, but truth be told, I am thankful that I could complete my degree at a comfortable pace. I finished with excellent grades as well. Now, as I continue my education, I plan to put all work on the back burner that is not associated with my career goal. Overall, this situation opened my eyes to the fact that decisions regarding the pace of my education are entirely mine, and I should proudly own my situation and unique path."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
18. How do you react when you miss an important goal or a critical deadline?
How to Answer
The purpose of this behavioral-based interview question is to discover how you react when things do not go your way. Think - how do you respond in the face of perceived failure? Your response will provide a measure of your maturity, professionalism, and self-awareness. Rather than only explaining how you act, back your answer with an example of a time when you faced this situation.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Over the past couple of years, while earning my undergraduate degree, I have learned to have a lot more grace and patience with myself when situations do not go as planned. Last month I missed a chemistry project deadline primarily because I underestimated the need for support on the project. Despite working dozens of hours on the project, I missed the deadline by one day. When I realized that the deadline was fast approaching, I reached out to my professor and apologized, asking for an extension. I did take full accountability for the inconvenience and met the extended deadline. The result was strong, and I received a stellar grade; however, I did not get to the finish line as smoothly as I would have wished. Now, for large projects, I put in the bulk of the hours upfront so that I am never caught off by the time commitment again."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
19. Diversity and inclusion are part of Boeing's values at the highest level. What do diversity and inclusion mean to you? Provide an example of how you embody these values.
How to Answer
Diversity and inclusion are part of Boeing's 'Enduring Values.' Boeing addresses diversity and inclusion by saying, 'We value the skills, strengths, and perspectives of our diverse team. We foster a collaborative workplace that engages all employees in finding solutions for our customers that advance our common business objectives.'
Take the time to think about what this statement means to you. Be prepared to discuss how you will embody this statement every day during your internship at Boeing.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"For me, diversity and inclusion means equal opportunity and excitement for someone's ideas and contribution, no matter their background or personal story. I wholeheartedly believe that it's the unique differences between us that leads to success. I know that Boeing takes the topic of diversity and inclusion seriously, and you include the issue in your core values. I appreciate that Boeing believes a diverse group is what will help advance business goals. In school, I actively seek out collaboration opportunities with those different from me so that I can learn a new perspective. In high school, I was the founder of our Multiculturalism Club, where we all shared concepts, beliefs, culinary experiences, and more. Rest assured, I will bring this same openness and enthusiasm to this internship with Boeing."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
20. Discuss a time when you had to take on a leadership role unexpectedly. What steps did you take to ensure the experience was a success?
How to Answer
The purpose of this question is for the interviewer to see that you have the confidence needed to succeed in Boeing's high-expectations, challenging environment. If you are great under pressure, you are likely the type of person who can jump into a leadership role, without much notice, and still succeed.
Think about a time when, as a leader, you worked under pressure, without succumbing to stress, and delivering a positive outcome. Outline for the interviewer how you made it all happen. Perhaps you used your excellent time management and communication skills. It's also important to highlight the situations' most significant win.
Remember: Boeing uses behavioral-based questions to conduct interviews, and they advise using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, and Result) method when responding. Be sure your answer is highly specific and includes quantifiable details and tangible results.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I recently took the lead as student body President after the current President unexpectedly stepped down. I quickly picked up the pieces and successfully organized the rest of the school's participation events and fundraisers for the year. First, I gathered the student volunteers to collect a full view of the tasks ahead. I delegated and assigned loose ends and other tasks based on the strengths of others. I applied a clear timeline for milestones and followed up diligently. I leveraged free tools such as G-Suite to keep documents and other important information well organized. By the end of the year, all of our efforts paid off. Our fundraisers were incredibly successful, and I just passed the baton of President to another eager individual who will take on this leadership role next school year."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
21. Describe a time you struggled while working with a team member and how you overcame the challenge.
How to Answer
The Boeing hiring authority wants assurance that, as an intern, you will be able to overcome team communication challenges in a professional manner. They want to see that you persevere, despite being faced with teamwork challenges.
Give an example of a time when you struggled working alongside a particular team member. Maybe there were personality differences present, or a misunderstanding occurred related to the direction of the project. Be sure to express to the interviewer how the communication issues affected the team, and how you overcame those communication challenges with this particular team member. The key to answering this question is not to single out the weaknesses of someone else, but to highlight how you turned this situation into a positive.
Remember: Boeing uses behavioral-based questions to conduct interviews, and they advise using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, and Result) method when responding. Be sure your answer is highly specific and includes quantifiable details and tangible results.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"My last significant group project was an aeronautical system design project. The team included 12 pre-assigned students, all with different personalities, which meant that communication was a challenge. We had over-communicators, brief communicators, and everyone in-between. Our differences were very prevalent right away, so I requested a team meeting, outlining a communication schedule that offered a happy medium for all communication styles. I also suggested we used Trello, a project management tool that helped us stay on track for the deliverables and expectations. This schedule and tool implementation worked very well, and our overall grade was exceptional. I will be suggesting this approach for future university projects."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
22. Describe the corporate vision of Boeing and how it aligns with your career vision and professional principles.
How to Answer
Boeing's vision is to 'Connect, Protect, Explore and Inspire the World through Aerospace Innovation.' Researching Boeing's website, the organization offers a deep dive into its principles, mission, goals for the coming year, aspirations, and their enterprise strategy. The more you immerse yourself into this information, the better prepared you will be for this response.
Mention, in brief, what you understand to be the corporate vision of Boeing. Next, discuss how you will play a part in working towards this vision during your internship. Be sure to make your answer as personalized as possible versus merely memorizing and reciting the Boeing vision statement.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Boeing's vision is to connect, protect, explore, and inspire. I did a deep dive into your 5-year plan and was especially excited to see 'Best Team, Talent and Leaders' on your list of critical points. My career plan is to contribute to a company with a global vision that includes a diversity and inclusion plan with many opportunities for diversified leadership development. I have long-term goals with Boeing if there is an opportunity to remain with the company after this internship. These goals involve diving into the resources provided through your center of excellence. Continued learning is just one of the ways I plan to support Boeing's vision in the short term and the long term."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
23. Talk about a team project in which you've been involved. What unique value did you bring to the group?
How to Answer
Leadership, communication, and teamwork are all incredibly important to Boeing, and many of their internship interview questions uncover where your skills fall in these areas. When it comes to collaboration and leadership, the interviewer truly wants to understand the role that you naturally take on, when put into a team-based environment. Discuss a recent team project, how you generated new ideas and added value to the group.
If you do not have a lot of work experience, you can draw on situations from your high school or post-secondary education. Volunteer experience is highly applicable, as well. Give the interviewer an idea of what you did to contribute, and be sure to mention any accolades you may have received for your excellent contribution.
Remember: Boeing uses behavioral-based questions to conduct interviews, and they advise using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, and Result) method when responding. Be sure your answer is highly specific and includes quantifiable details and tangible results.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I contributed above and beyond at my part-time job this year by joining the social committee and helping to plan a few events such as the annual holiday party. I thought that my research expertise might be helpful, and it was! I found appropriate vendors, compared prices, and eventually found the best options for the venue and catering. My contribution was significant, and I felt a great sense of pride on the day of our event."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
24. What steps have you taken this year to encourage your professional development, and prepare yourself for a competitive internship with Boeing?
How to Answer
Professional development doesn't need to wait until you are well into your career. The most competitive internship candidates are those who think years ahead, planning and preparing for future leadership and growth opportunities.
Boeing's hiring authorities want to see that you have taken your career path into your own hands, becoming responsible for your personal and professional development. There are many ways to take professional development steps, including:
- Reading books and articles from influencers in your industry
- Taking coursework to gain new skills
- Attending industry conferences to network and learn
- Listening to podcasts
Show the interviewer that you are active in your professional growth by walking them through the steps you have actively taken. Be sure to build a bridge between this development and how it has prepared you to succeed in this internship with Boeing.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Although unrelated to my career path, I have been asking for more responsibilities at work while also taking on more tasks without being asked. I committed to attempt perfect attendance at work this year, and have been reading more in my personal time. I have a list of the top 25 leadership books and plan to get through it in 12 months. So far, I have completed the first eight books and have noticed a boost in my professional performance and communication. This boost in confidence, communication, and eagerness to lead will certainly be factors that help me stand out and succeed during my time with Boeing."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
25. Reliable communication is essential to Boeing. Talk about a time when you improved communication between yourself and a peer in the workplace.
How to Answer
The exchange of reliable and accurate information is critical to Boeing, which is why the company puts a lot of emphasis on the communication capabilities of each employee and intern. Be prepared to discuss a time when your communication skills improved a work-based situation between yourself and a peer.
Perhaps you used your excellent communication skills to divert a potentially harmful situation. Maybe you saved a business transaction, you were able to reiterate the intention of an email before feelings were hurt, or you helped a cross-departmental effort to go smoothly.
If you are new to your career or do not bring workplace experience, come prepared with an example related to your post-secondary studies, a volunteer experience, or a group-based situation such as a team sport.
Remember: Boeing uses behavioral-based questions to conduct interviews, and they advise using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, and Result) method when responding. Be sure your answer is highly specific and includes quantifiable details and tangible results.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I recently worked on a group project with a team member from a different office. At first, we were emailing back and forth, but that wasn't working very well because we would miss messages, or sometimes the tone of the communication would be misinterpreted. Since this was to be a long-term project collaboration, I asked this co-worker if we could schedule a regular conference call to review communicate updates every three days. They agreed, and the recommendation significantly improved the speed and ease of our communication."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
26. Where do you acquire your knowledge of leadership, and what is the most important leadership lesson you have learned to date?
How to Answer
Boeing recognizes that the building of influential leaders is fundamental to their success. Leadership is one of the core strengths they look for when interviewing for internships. Discuss the depth of your leadership knowledge and how you have come to acquire this knowledge. Next, be prepared to talk about the most important leadership lesson you have learned and how you will apply this lesson to your time as a Boeing intern.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I was recently reading about the Boeing Leadership Center and am very impressed by your organizations' dedication to broadening and deepening the leadership capabilities of your team members. Great leadership is critical to me as well, which is why I immerse myself daily in leadership books and podcasts such as The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast. I am a fan of John Maxwell and his dedication to teaching influential leadership. One of the greatest lessons I have learned from Maxwell is always to consider my legacy in every decision that I make and each interaction that I have."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
27. To be accepted into a Boeing internship, you must be available full-time for a minimum of ten to twelve weeks. How do you plan to accommodate this schedule?
How to Answer
Boeing's internship requirements include a commitment of full-time work for at least ten weeks but preferably twelve weeks. Boeing offers paid internships, which significantly reduces the hardship sometimes associated with taking an internship.
Your answer to this question should be clear, straightforward, and simple. Show that you have a plan in place and that you are fully prepared for this commitment.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have already let my family and my employer know that this exciting internship at Boeing could be a real possibility for me in the coming weeks. I have full support as I approach this next stage in my professional career, and I am more than ready and eager to commit twelve weeks to this internship program."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
28. To be eligible for a Boeing internship, you must be enrolled in a related Bachelor's degree program or a consolidated Bachelor's/Master's degree program. Walk us through your educational path and how it relates to this internship opportunity.
How to Answer
Boeing is clear in regards to the educational requirements associated with their internship program. If you have landed an interview, congratulations! You hit the mark in your application. While discussing your post-secondary studies, think about the core skills that would be transferable to any position.
Maybe you haven't completed your degree yet. However, you have likely learned a lot through your education at this point. Much of what you have gained may translate into transferable skills such as time management, technical writing, public speaking, giving presentations, independent learning methods, or academic research. Take a few minutes to walk the hiring authority through your educational path and how it aligns with this internship opportunity.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"My degree is in International Business and, although not yet complete, I have learned a great deal in regards to the theoretics behind the global business landscape and interpersonal relations across cultures and nations. I also learned a lot about presentation building, public speaking, and working in a collaborative environment. All of these skills align well with the requirements and responsibilities associated with this internship opportunity."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
29. Walk us through your volunteer experience and one lesson you've learned while giving back to others. How will you apply this lesson to your time with Boeing?
How to Answer
Community engagement is one of the core principles at Boeing. Boeing encourages its employees to give their time, talent, and resources to communities globally. Stats show us that at least 1 in 5 hiring managers prefer to hire candidates with volunteer experience. Come to your interview prepared to outline the ways that you have given back to others. Discuss how the situation was fulfilling, what you learned, and how you will apply that lesson during your internship at Boeing.
Volunteering could include:
- Raising money for a cause
- Donating blood on a regular rotation or organizing a blood drive
- Running in a charity race where financial pledges are required
- Volunteering at your church or local youth camp
- Cleaning up a local park
- Volunteering to tutor a student or peer
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"For the past two years, I have been a volunteer pet foster for my local humane society. So far, I have been able to foster nine dogs throughout that time, taking special care of them until they find their forever home. The biggest lesson I have learned from this experience is that we are only as good as the way we treat the helpless around us. This philosophy could include helpless animals, small children, those with disabilities, and the elderly. I know that human rights and ethics are among Boeings' core values, and your ethical business mantra is, 'Do the right thing, every time, no exceptions.' I am doing the right thing by caring for living beings who need kindness, and I plan to bring these principles with me to this internship."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
30. Boeing seeks interns who have portrayed leadership abilities in the past. How do you exude leadership in your current position?
How to Answer
This internship interview question challenges you to discuss how you portray leadership in your daily position. You may not be in a leadership role, and that is okay too! Perhaps you have been a mentor to someone in the past, led an athletic team as the captain, or guided a group project during your post-secondary studies. Provide an example of a time when you acted as a leader.
Remember: Boeing uses behavioral-based questions to conduct interviews, and they advise using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, and Result) method when responding. Be sure your answer is highly specific and includes quantifiable details and tangible results.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I feel I'm always exuding a sense of leadership, whether it is a formal part of my role or not. When it comes to my extracurricular activities such as volunteering with Meals on Wheels, or as captain of my school's soccer team, I am often the first to arrive and the last to leave. I am a strong team captain because I position myself as a positive example, and I offer myself as a teacher and mentor to those who want to grow and learn. As an intern at Boeing, my primary goal will be to learn from your experts in the engineering field. With that said, I believe my leadership capabilities will still shine through when it comes to my dedication and the eagerness and attentiveness I will bring to the job with me every day."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 18th, 2022