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Engaging youth in the critical questions and careers of Earth and space science.
The Earth & Space Learning Center of Excellence sparks youth curiosity through immersive STEM experiences focused on the systems that shape our world—and worlds beyond. Through our support of afterschool and summer programs, we help youth explore topics like geoscience, astronomy, and space technology. Whether they’re building rockets with advice from a real-life aeronautical engineer or designing solutions to protect Earth’s resources, youth build essential skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and observation that translate across STEM fields.
From aerospace engineering to space tech to planetary science, the space economy is growing—and it needs a future-ready workforce to sustain it. While space inspires young people to learn more about science and technology, most lack access to hands-on experiences that connect that interest to real careers. This Center of Excellence helps youth see that space exploration isn’t just about astronauts—it’s about solving real challenges on Earth, designing systems that power satellites and exploration, and advancing innovations that shape life on this planet and beyond.
As of May 2023, the median annual wage for aerospace engineers was $134,330—nearly triple the $48,060 median wage across all occupations. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
This talent gap is expected to impact key aerospace and defense projects, underscoring the urgent need to prepare youth for careers in advanced chip design and space systems. Source: ISG
The global space economy grew 8% to $546 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow another 41%—creating new opportunities in space tech, aerospace engineering, and related STEM careers. Source: AIAA
Youth are already curious about space—but few have access to hands-on STEM experiences outside of school that help them see it as a real career path. The Earth & Space Center aims to bridge that gap. Source: The Harris Poll for LEGO Group, 2022
As we enter a new era of space exploration, young people need opportunities to discover the growing possibilities in aerospace careers. STEM Next’s free Launching Futures Toolkit, powered by RTX, helps afterschool and summer educators bring those possibilities to life.
Explore hands-on activities inspired by real-world aerospace challenges, facilitation guides and training, and career profiles that introduce youth to a range of pathways across the industry. Built around STEM Next’s Career-Connected Learning Framework, the toolkit makes it easy to connect STEM learning with the skills and careers shaping the future.
Here are the toolkits, strategies, and youth activities available through the Earth & Space Learning Center of Excellence.
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