Brisbane Qld, 10 May 2024 – Following the resounding success of the Aerospace Gateway to Industry Schools Program (AGISP) trip to Space Camp Academy in 2023, the Northrop Grumman Foundation has once again demonstrated its commitment to education – generously extending a fully-funded Space Camp experience to students and teachers at the AGISP community of schools.
The Northrop Grumman Foundation will fund three teachers and four students to immerse themselves in the wonders of space exploration and STEM learning at the Space Camp Academy, based at the US Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama.
Among the selected QLD participants, Bundamba State Secondary College and
Toowoomba State High School have been chosen to send one student and one educator each.
Additionally, Miami State High School has been automatically invited to select one student to participate – in recognition of Miami State High teacher Mr Lee Freeman, who was the recipient of the Teacher Excellence of the Year Award at the 2023 Aerospace Industry Education Awards.
Northrop Grumman Australia is a co-sponsor for this annual award through the AGISP and highlights Freeman’s exceptional dedication to education and STEM advocacy.
The selected participants from the above schools will have the privilege of joining another student and educator from a Lanyon High School in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).
The collaborative experience promises to ignite a passion for space exploration, foster teamwork, and inspire the next generation of innovators and leaders in aerospace and related fields.
Bundamba State Secondary College teacher Emma Graham said attending the Space Camp Academy would be an unforgettable experience for her and Year 8 student Jerrash.
“It’s a really exciting opportunity for Jerrash to go over to space camp for the week in Alabama – and hopefully to give him lots of opportunities in the future,” Ms Graham said.”
“I think math is a great subject to enjoy and it’s Jerrash’s favourite.”
“I teach maths and science, so I’m a little bit biased there, but they’re great skills to have in order to have a great career.”
Queensland Minister for Training and Skills Development and Member for Bundamba Lance McCallum welcomed the opportunity through the successful Aerospace Gateway to Industry Schools program.
“Congratulations to the students and teachers on being selected for this out-of-this-world experience, especially Jerrash and Emma from my local community in Bundamba,” Minister McCallum said.
“The Miles Government is proud to support young Queenslanders in their ambition by training them up for the jobs of the future through programs just like this – which has grown to 30 schools across Queensland since its launch two decades ago.
“We know Queensland’s aerospace sector is set to take-off in the years ahead – with its economic contribution forecast to grow by more than $53 million each year through to 2025-26 – so it’s important to give our young Queenslanders the best chance at securing those opportunities.
“A trip to Space Camp is one giant leap for these students dreaming of pursuing an exciting aerospace career and I wish them all the best.”
Northrop Grumman’s ongoing support for STEM education underscores its dedication to fostering curiosity, creativity, and excellence in students worldwide.
Through initiatives like the Aerospace Gateway to Industry Schools Program, the company continues to invest in shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Natalie Allen
Project Manager – Aerospace Gateway Schools
[email protected] | 0436 838 112
Left to Right, pictured are Bundamba State Secondary College teacher Emma Graham, Bundamba State Secondary College Year 8 student Jerrash, Bundamba State Secondary College Principal Sandra Quinn and Queensland Minister for Training and Skills Development and Member for Bundamba Lance McCallum.
Left to Right, pictured are Toowoomba State High School teacher Ashleigh Rummenie, Toowoomba State High School Year 8 student, Wellington.
Left to Right, pictured are Miami State High School teacher Lee Freeman, Miami State High School Year 9 student, Kitty.
The Northrop Grumman Foundation supports diverse and sustainable programs that enhance the STEM education experience, foster an inclusive learning environment, and inspire the next generation of innovators. By partnering with schools, nonprofits, and community organizations, the Foundation aims to empower students globally to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. For more information, visit Northrop Grumman Foundation.
Learn more about: Northrop Grumman Foundation
This is an educational initiative, supported and funded by the QLD Government, and hosted by Aviation Australia. The program is aimed at inspiring and preparing students for careers in the aerospace industry and involves partnerships between educational institutions, aerospace companies, and government organisations. It also addresses the industry’s need for a skilled workforce by providing students with the knowledge and experiences necessary to pursue careers in aerospace engineering, aviation, space science, and related fields.
Learn more about Aerospace Gateway to Industry Schools Program (AGISP)