#United States #San Diego #STEM Next #Flight Crew #STEM Ambassadors

STEM Next Opportunity Fund's 2025 Flight Crew

On April 29, 2025, the STEM Next Opportunity Fund proudly revealed the newest cohort of its Flight Crew youth ambassador program. This year, the program has welcomed 77 students from various regions across the United States, marking its most extensive roster since its inception in 2022, which started with just 16 members.

The Flight Crew aims to empower these young individuals through comprehensive training in leadership, public speaking, and social media strategies. Its mission focuses on amplifying their voices, enabling them to advocate for increased access to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) opportunities, particularly in afterschool and summer programs.

Growth and Development

The Flight Crew has become a flagship initiative for the STEM Next Opportunity Fund, demonstrating significant growth over time. Currently, it boasts a national network of 111 alumni, of which 12 return as mentors in the 2025 cohort. This model of near-peer mentorship not only supports the personal development of the new ambassadors but also strengthens their leadership skills and boosts their confidence.

In addition to enhancing their capabilities, the Flight Crew members serve as ambassadors for STEM education, actively sharing their experiences and stories to motivate their peers and attract more youth to STEM subjects beyond traditional classroom settings. As Ron Ottinger, the Executive Director of the STEM Next Opportunity Fund, remarked, "The Flight Crew proves what's possible when young people are given the tools and a platform to lead. These youth are passionate, insightful, and ready to show the country how STEM experiences outside the classroom can change lives."

Building Professional Skills

The program is dedicated to bridging the gap between education and career paths. Flight Crew members gain valuable skills, including resume building and interview preparation, while forming connections with mentors and role models who guide them in realizing their STEM ambitions. Such interactions not only bolster their professional qualifications but also inspire them to envision a future in STEM careers.

The success of the Flight Crew is made possible through partnerships with notable organizations, including Aramco, BAE Systems, General Motors, and Lockheed Martin, demonstrating the commitment of national businesses to supporting STEM education.

Encouraging Future Leaders

To learn more about the 2025 Flight Crew and to meet its remarkable members, individuals are encouraged to visit stemnext.org/2025-flight-crew. The website offers insights into the personal stories and ambitions of the youth selected this year, showcasing the potential of tomorrow’s innovators.

About STEM Next Opportunity Fund

The STEM Next Opportunity Fund is a prominent nonprofit organization committed to making STEM learning more engaging and accessible to youth nationwide through afterschool and summer programs. With a rich history spanning over a decade, the organization has impacted over 12.5 million youth and supported more than 390,000 educators in afterschool settings. Through initiatives like the Million Girls Moonshot and the Institute for a STEM Ready America, STEM Next plays a pivotal role in nurturing curiosity, confidence, and the essential skills youths require for future endeavors.

With the 2025 Flight Crew program, the STEM Next Opportunity Fund continues its mission of connecting young individuals to vast career opportunities, effectively preparing them to thrive in an ever-evolving world.