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Calling all teen STEM leaders! Applications for the 2027 STEM Next Flight Crew are open through Oct. 29. Learn more & apply.

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Elevating the Next Generation of STEM Leaders

The Flight Crew is a youth ambassador program of STEM Next featuring remarkable young leaders who represent their states, show what’s possible, and spark their peers’ curiosity in STEM. Through their voices and visibility, these teens help build a movement—showing how STEM learning beyond the classroom can change lives.

Sharing Their Stories

Motivated by their impactful STEM experiences beyond the classroom, Flight Crew members share their stories on regional, state and national stages; participate in mentorship opportunities; and lend their voices to push for more STEM opportunities outside of school.

Building Connections

Whether it’s sharing what they discovered in their afterschool science club or the excitement of internships and college applications — the connections built by shared experiences help open doors, foster excitement and spark curiosity for each young person participating in the Flight Crew experience.

Honing Their Skills

Flight Crew members receive training in public speaking, social media, and leadership development to grow as confident ambassadors for afterschool STEM. They also get resume and interview coaching, and connect with mentors and career role models who help them navigate their own STEM journeys.

Applications Are Now Open

JOIN THE 2027 FLIGHT CREW

Are you a teen who loves STEM and wants to grow as a leader, share your story and connect with other young STEM leaders from across the country?

Youth ages 13-18 with experience in an afterschool or summer STEM program are invited to apply for the 2027 STEM Next Flight Crew by October 29, 2026.

A large group of diverse teens in matching white shirts sits on a staircase, smiling at the camera. Four girls sit in front, and the rest are grouped behind them along the steps in a well-lit indoor space, showcasing proud afterschool STEM leadership and amplifying youth STEM voices.

Since its debut in 2022, the Flight Crew has been recognized by NASA, The National STEM Festival, SXSW EDU and more.

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"I was really scared to pursue STEM because I didn't feel like I was good enough. I wasn't confident in my work and I wasn't confident in myself, but through this experience I was able to grow and learn that anyone can get into STEM. It's a matter of believing in yourself, and that's been really helpful for me."

Emerald

Georgia

See the Impact: Flight Crew Video Spotlights

Learn firsthand from our members and alumni how the Flight Crew program has impacted their STEM journeys.

How Afterschool STEM Helped Rory Explore the Stars

Growing Change: Te'Lario's STEM Journey

The Data Speaks for Itself

Confidence and Belonging

Surveys of alumni show the Flight Crew experience has clearly strengthened participants’ confidence and sense of belonging in STEM.

100%

Felt they gained a supportive community of peers

97%

Felt inspired to be changemakers in their communities

97%

Reported a stronger sense of belonging in STEM.

Meet the Flight Crew

Ellie

Wyoming ✦ 9th Grade

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Aditi

Wisconsin ✦ 12th Grade

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Caroline

Washington ✦ 10th Grade

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Michelle

Virginia ✦ 12th Grade

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Nik

Virginia ✦ 10th Grade

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Scarlett

Vermont ✦ 12th Grade

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Brooklyn

Utah ✦ 12th Grade

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Prahalad

Texas ✦ 11th Grade

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James

Texas ✦ 10th Grade

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Rory

Texas ✦ 12th Grade

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Akaansh

Tennessee ✦ 8th Grade

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Kaia

South Dakota ✦ 12th Grade

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Support the Flight Crew

Support the Flight Crew

From building satellites to curing diseases, these young leaders are dreaming big—and learning how to lead even bigger. Help keep this program free for the next generation.