SAIC Advances STEM Education and Empowers Future Space Explorers as the Founding Legacy Member

Virginia Space Flight Academy (VASFA) is proud to announce the continued support of Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) as a Founding Legacy Member, which coincides with VASFA’s launch of its improved membership program and 25th anniversary.

Since 2020, SAIC has been a steadfast supporter of VASFA's mission to inspire and educate students in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Their commitment to innovation and excellence mirrors VASFA's values, making them the perfect partner to launch this membership program during the academy’s 25th-anniversary year. As supporting members, SAIC  champions initiatives that positively impact futures and changes the career trajectories of our alumni community of space campers and STEM explorers.

As the Founding Legacy Member of the Virginia Space Flight Academy, SAIC has been instrumental in advancing space science education for aspiring students nationwide. VASFA, with SAIC's unwavering support, aims to inspire and empower students to pursue careers in STEM, with a particular emphasis on aerospace and space exploration.

Executive Director of Virginia Space Flight Academy Kim Check expressed her gratitude, saying, "SAIC's dedication to education and their belief in the potential of young minds to shape the future aligns perfectly with our mission. We are delighted to have them as our Founding Legacy Member and look forward to soaring to new heights together."

One of the remarkable ways SAIC has contributed to this mission is through its generous funding of technology resources for the Space Adventure Camp. This summer program provides a unique opportunity for young, curious minds to engage in hands-on, immersive experiences related to aerospace and technology. SAIC's support has enabled the acquisition of a classroom set of LEGO SPIKE Prime kits, revolutionizing how campers learned about coding, robotics and engineering.

The LEGO SPIKE Prime kits, made possible by SAIC's generous funding, allowed 216 campers to build and program their own space-related projects, fostering creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Campers simulated space missions, designed and built space exploration vehicles and explored the intricacies of robotics in a fun and engaging manner. SAIC's support ensures that the Space Adventure Camp continues to provide an unparalleled educational experience that prepares young minds for the challenges and opportunities of the future, building their confidence and preparing them for life beyond school.

"SAIC believes in the power of STEM education to inspire the next generation of innovators and space explorers,” said David Ray, senior vice president, Space Business Unit at SAIC. “As a founding legacy member of the Virginia Space Flight Academy and through our support of initiatives such as the Space Adventure Camp, we hope to ignite a passion for science and technology that will propel these young campers to pursue a lifetime in STEM-related work."

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