Intern, Public Policy and Research

American Hotel & Lodging Association:

Who We Are and What We Do.

For more than 100 years, the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) has been the foremost representative of and advocate for the U.S. lodging industry. We are the only national association that represents all segments of an industry that is among the 10 largest business sectors in America. We advocate for our members so they can do their best at what matters most: serving guests, employees, and their communities.

From major global brands to small inns and bed & breakfasts, AHLA provides a singular voice that brings together the industry’s multitude of constituents. Our industry is incredibly diverse and represents everyone from brand CEOs to independent hotel owners, general managers, and hotel staff and is an integral contributor to the American economy. Our offices are located in Washington, D.C.

AHLA Internship Program

AHLA offers paid summer internship opportunities: in government relations, membership services, and communications. We strive to offer a comprehensive internship program that provides insight into association work and vast exposure to the hotel and lodging industry, including hands-on learning and the opportunity to create a relevant portfolio to present to future employers. 

Interns will be based at our headquarters in D.C., where they will participate in initiatives such as policy, advocacy, communications, member engagement, strategic partnerships, or one of our many AHLAF programs. Interns will also participate in training and development opportunities. The program starts in June and finishes in August. Interns will be paid $25/hr bi-weekly and will be expected to work 40 hours per week. In addition to competitive hourly pay, AHLA offers all interns a transportation stipend of $75 per month to help absorb commuting costs.

The 2026 Internship program will be hybrid with Tuesday-Thursday in the Washington DC office. Interns are responsible for their own health insurance, housing, and travel expenses to and from Washington, D.C. Must be available for 10-12 weeks after June 8, 2026 start.

How do I apply?

To be eligible, you must be a rising junior, rising senior, or graduate student and available for the duration of the internship program. Candidates must be eligible to work in the U.S., have a strong interest in the hospitality industry, and have at least a 3.0 GPA. Interested candidates should submit a letter of interest and a resume. Interviews will take place on a rolling basis and final decisions will be made no later than June 6, 2026.

Support the Public Policy and Research team through targeted legal, regulatory, and data-driven projects that advance the association’s advocacy priorities. Responsibilities include conducting legal and policy research, drafting concise summaries of federal, state, and local bills regulatory developments.  The intern will assist in briefings on Capitol Hill, draft research memoranda, letters, and provide data analytics.  The role also includes building and maintaining policy-relevant databases, including tools that align hospitality properties with government stakeholders, and contributing to broader research initiatives that inform strategic advocacy and member engagement.

Salary : $25