Polygence Work Lab

Photo of Akash, Polygence Work Lab alumni student

“This is different than anything I’ve done in the past. We’re actually doing real-life work. This isn’t a hypothetical case study, we’re really putting this work out there and it’s making real impact.”
- Akash, rising senior

49% of Gen Z internship seekers are submitting more than 50 applications during their search.

For high school students already juggling grades, college applications and extracurriculars, this becomes a barrier to gaining real-world experience in their chosen field.

That's why we created Work Lab, a new way for high school students to work directly with innovative startups without the overwhelming internship search.
Students receive structured training directly from their host company, then immediately apply what they've learned to a real project based on the needs of the business.

The Experience That Gets You Ready for College—And the Real World.

Forget boring internships full of shadowing and busywork. At Polygence, you’ll start with focused, real-world training from a startup founder, learning the tools, context and skills pros actually use. Then you'll put that training into action on a real project, tackling creative, hands-on work where you'll problem-solve, make decisions, and see your impact—while building the confidence and experience that prepare you for whatever comes next.

You’ll begin with dedicated training, and then dive into a real company project.

Build professionalism & skills while contributing to a company’s growth.

Complete project and showcase your work icon

Complete your project and showcase the results on your resume or in your portfolio.

Past Work Lab Projects

Polygence Work Lab high school students have worked with host companies from industries ranging from Technology and Healthcare to Sustainability & Non-Profit.
Summer 2026 opportunities will be released in February. Here are some of the past projects our students have worked on.

Join a project where you’ll review and clean 3D models of real-world industrial equipment using tools like MeshLab or Blender. You’ll also gain experience in how autonomous systems capture these models and how internal tools support the process. Perfect for high school students interested in computer vision, automation, and building real skills with professional software.

Program Details

Work Lab is an exciting training and project-based learning experience where motivated high school students build real skills—then team up with innovative non-profits and startup founders to apply them to real-world challenges and create something meaningful. Here's how it works:

Program Duration & Important Dates

Polygence runs multiple Work Lab cohorts during Summer, each offering unique project opportunities and its own application deadline. Each cohort lasts 6 weeks: you'll start with around 10 hours of focused training, then move on to roughly 40 hours of project work, which can be completed at your own pace within the program period.

Project Format

Location: Remote, U.S. Hours
Time Commitment: 10 hours of training and 40 hours of project work, over the course of 6 weeks.
Mentorship Structure:
- Starts with mandatory training sessions: Workplace etiquette with Polygence, then Industry training from the host company.
- Project work starts with a project kickoff meeting
- Five weekly check-in meetings with your host company contact
- Host provides guidance and feedback, but you’ll lead the work
- Concludes with a final project presentation and direct feedback

What’s Included?

Workplace etiquette workshop to prepare you for professional settings
Program success workshop to ensure you get the most out of your experience
Industry training sessions with your host company
Five weekly meetings with your host manager for guidance
Asynchronous support from your host (via email, Slack, Teams, etc.)
Weekly written feedback from your host manager
Final feedback on your completed project
Opportunity to request a letter of reference based on your performance (not guaranteed)
BONUS: Work Lab students get invited into the Polygence Thinking Lab, monthly workshops focused on practicing the Art of Thinking

Apply Now

Learning Outcomes

Build real-world problem-solving and independent work skills
Strengthen professional communication and collaboration
Gain exposure to startup environments and industry tools
Develop time management, goal-setting, and workplace readiness
Create a portfolio-worthy project and explore career interests

Tuition & Affordability

This is a tuition-based training program that offers structured training and a project-based learning experience, with industry mentors compensated for their time, guidance, and mentorship. Discounts may be available. Apply to learn more.

Eligibility Requirements

Must be 15 years or older
Must be mature, responsible, and self-motivated
Must be able to work independently and communicate professionally
Some projects require advanced skills like coding
This is a selective program for students ready to take initiative and follow through
If a parent feels unsure about their student’s maturity, or believes they’ll need to help their student through the project, the student is not a fit for the program
No refunds will be issued for failure to complete the program due to immaturity, lack of follow-through, or unmet host manager expectations

Apply Now