COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Space Foundation, a nonprofit advocate organization founded in 1983 for the global space ecosystem, today announced a new partnership with Raytheon Intelligence & Space, a Raytheon Technologies business, to embolden the next generation of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) leaders in Colorado. Utilizing a $50,000 grant from Raytheon Intelligence & Space, Space Foundation will expand two STEM programs that will serve nearly 2,000 students, teachers and young professionals throughout the state.
This summer, Space Foundation and Raytheon Intelligence & Space will launch the Discovery Center Field Trip Scholarship, which will enable students grades K-12 and teachers from Title 1 schools in Colorado to visit the Space Foundation Discovery Center, the region’s first and only dedicated space, science and technology center, at no cost. The New Generation program will also expand to include three new leadership exchanges for high school students from underserved communities and provide young professionals free networking, career development, and mentoring opportunities.
Space Foundation’s STEM programming operates within the Center for Innovation and Education, a division that develops and delivers inclusive, innovative and sustainable workforce and economic development initiatives for the space industry through space-inspired education and improved skills and interest in STEM. The Center for Innovation and Education provides all levels of students with standards-based curriculum that uses space principles to integrate STEM into all content areas.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support from Raytheon Intelligence & Space,” said Shelli Brunswick, chief operating officer at Space Foundation. “Their commitment to developing the next generation of STEM leaders will allow us to continue instilling a passion in students to become lifelong learners, grow the community’s workforce, and strengthen economic development.”
The expanded partnership with Raytheon Intelligence & Space is part of Raytheon Technologies’ Connect Up initiative, which is a 10-year, $500 million corporate social responsibility initiative to drive transformative, generational impact on critical societal challenges.
“One of the biggest obstacles preventing students from pursuing an education or a career in STEM is a lack of exposure to STEM education and mentorship,” said Kristin Robertson, president of Space & C2 Systems at Raytheon Intelligence & Space. “Building a diverse STEM workforce requires greater representation in the STEM education system. That’s why Raytheon Intelligence & Space is proud to partner with Space Foundation to offer Colorado youth free, hands-on STEM programming this year.”
About Raytheon Intelligence & Space
Raytheon Intelligence & Space delivers the disruptive technologies our customers need to succeed in any domain, against any challenge. A developer of advanced sensors, cyber services and software solutions, Raytheon Intelligence & Space provides a decisive advantage to civil, military and commercial customers in more than 30 countries around the world. Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the business generated $15.2 billion in annual revenue in 2021 and has 34,500 employees worldwide. Raytheon Intelligence & Space is one of four businesses that form Raytheon Technologies Corporation.
About Center for Innovation and Education
Center for Innovation and Education, a division of Space Foundation, is a lifelong learning provider for the global space ecosystem that offers workforce development and economic opportunity for pre-K-12 and university students, teachers, entrepreneurs, businesses and space professionals. Programs and resources are delivered in person or virtually around the globe. Through its Workforce Development Roadmap of programs and resources, Center for Innovation and Education enhances the outlook and opportunities for careers, jobs and business ventures. To learn more about Center for Innovation and Education, please visit www.spacefoundation.org/cie, and visit www.discoverspace.org to learn more about Space Foundation Discovery Center.
About Space Foundation
Space Foundation is a nonprofit advocate organization founded in 1983, offering a gateway to information, education and collaboration for space exploration and space-to-Earth industries that define the global space ecosystem. Driven by a partnership model, Space Foundation operates three divisions that unite the entire spectrum of stakeholders — business, government, education and local communities — through support from corporate membership, sponsorship, fundraising and grants. Symposium 365 is the premier source for media and events, including the world-renowned Space Symposium and The Space Report. Center for Innovation and Education is a lifelong learning provider and Global Alliance facilitates collaboration around the world. Visit Space Foundation at www.SpaceFoundation.org, and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.
