The Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) announced this week that it has signed a Space Act Agreement with National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to inspire the next generation of aerospace and STEM professionals.

The first initiative through the partnership will launch in Summer 2023 and engage second through sixth grade students from historically excluded backgrounds in STEM to the field of aerospace through a pilot program developed for clubs and summer camps. NASA experts will meet with students to share technical rocketry expertise, career advice, STEM education lessons, and resources.

Furthermore, the agreement will enable AIA to expand upon its award-winning American Rocketry Challenge program to create opportunities that broaden student participation in aerospace and provide connections to NASA’s Artemis program and other NASA missions.

“Together with NASA, we’re working to ignite the spark of innovation in a new generation of leaders and to launch them on a trajectory towards a bright and exciting future in STEM,” said AIA president and CEO Eric Fanning. “Through intentional and inclusive outreach, we’re empowering students from all backgrounds to reach for the stars and unlock a world of untold possibilities in the aerospace industry.”

Access more information on the agreement in the AIA news item and learn more about the American Rocketry Challenge.