SEATTLE, Sept. 20, 2021—Applications are being accepted through Oct. 17 for the 2021-2022 class in the Museum’s Washington Aerospace Scholars (WAS) program. This STEM program is open to Washington state high school juniors, and participants have the option to earn five science credits from the University of Washington. WAS provides lessons in Earth and Space Science and NASA history, and offers interaction with STEM industry professionals, hands-on engineering activities, and a national alumni network that tracks student progress from high school until after college graduation.
Over 70 percent of the 1791 college-aged WAS alumni are currently involved in a STEM college or career pathway.
Phase 1 of WAS is offered online for free, enabling students throughout Washington state to participate. During the Phase 2 summer program participants have a six-day residency at The Museum of Flight, where they work in teams to plan a human mission to Mars. Students also tour local aerospace companies including Boeing and Blue Origin.
“WAS has allowed me to join and add to a community unlike any other that I’ve previously been exposed to,” said one WAS graduate, “I’ve gained leadership experience, communication skills, and a renewed appreciation for engineering, innovation, and space research.”
Applications for the 2021-22 WAS class are available now at www.museumofflight.org/WAS
