STEM Program

Celebrating STEM Achievements in Aerospace Valley

Every big achievement and discovery of aerospace history has been reached when innovators played in the boundaries between Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. We’re delighted to provide an exhibition for anyone interested in aerospace and the STEM fields, as well as to offer scholarships for students interested in pursuing a career in this area.

What makes our STEM Exhibits so Cool?

‘Hands-on’ opportunities for kids and adults to meet pilots, find out how robots operate, and see how the sun can power a car!

High school robotics teams will be on hand to demonstrate how their robots work.

The 2020 Air Show will feature a drone exhibit as part of the overall STEM experience.

Join us in March 2020 and visit one the best STEM exhibitions you will ever experience!

Photos from Previous Stem Exhibits

What is STEM, Anyway?

STEM education is more than just Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics; it is an interdisciplinary and applied approach, coupled with real-world, problem-based learning. STEM education removes the traditional barriers between the four disciplines by integrating them into one cohesive teaching and learning paradigm. Today, new innovations and inventions tend to be made at the boundaries of these four disciplines, where they naturally overlap.

A STEM-literate student is even more than an innovator and critical thinker, able to make meaningful connections between school, community, work, and global issues. A STEM-literate high school graduate can enroll in a college-level course of study in science, technology, engineering, or math without the need for remediation. STEM skills are increasingly necessary to engage in our knowledge-based economy. Solid evidence suggests that the highest-wage and fastest-growing jobs in future years will be in STEM fields and all employees will need to utilize STEM skills for problem solving in a wide range of industries.

Apply for our STEM Scholarship!

Download the application and read the guidelines at the link below.

Interested in Becoming a STEM Exhibitor?

Use this 2020 STEM Exhibition Registration Form, and contact with any questions. You will receive a form which should take 5-10 minutes to complete.

Schools interested in presenting will be sent permission slips upon acceptance to the program.

Why STEM Matters in the Aerospace Industry

The aerospace industry has always been driven by the relentless pursuit of discovery and innovation. From the Wright brothers' first flight to the moon landing and beyond, every milestone has been achieved through the application of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. In the Antelope Valley, often called "Aerospace Valley," this legacy continues with cutting-edge research and development in aircraft, spacecraft, and unmanned systems. STEM education is the foundation that prepares the next generation to tackle the complex challenges of flight, propulsion, materials, and avionics. By fostering a deep understanding of these disciplines, we ensure that the spirit of exploration and technical excellence continues to thrive.

The demand for STEM professionals in aerospace is higher than ever. Engineers, scientists, and technologists are needed to design more efficient aircraft, develop reusable space launch systems, and create autonomous vehicles. Careers in these fields offer not only competitive salaries but also the opportunity to contribute to projects that push the boundaries of human achievement. The Air Show's STEM Program aims to illuminate these pathways for students and inspire them to pursue studies and careers that will shape the future of aerospace.

Interactive STEM Exhibits and Activities

Our STEM exhibits are designed to be more than just displays—they are immersive, hands-on experiences that spark curiosity and encourage exploration. Visitors of all ages can engage with real-world technology and interact with experts who are passionate about their fields. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

Robotics Demonstrations: High school robotics teams will showcase their creations, explaining the engineering design process, programming, and teamwork that goes into building competition-ready robots. You might even get a chance to operate one!
Drone Zone: The 2020 Air Show features a dedicated drone exhibit where you can learn about the technology behind unmanned aerial vehicles, from hobbyist quadcopters to advanced military systems. See live demonstrations and talk to drone pilots about the many applications of this rapidly growing field.
Renewable Energy Displays: Discover how solar power can propel a car and explore other sustainable energy solutions that are critical for the future of aviation and space exploration.
Meet the Pilots: Have a one-on-one conversation with pilots and aerospace professionals who can share their journeys and insights into the industry. This is a unique opportunity to ask questions and get advice from those living the dream.

These activities are carefully curated to align with educational standards and provide a fun, memorable way to learn about STEM concepts outside the classroom.

STEM Scholarship Program Details

The Los Angeles County Air Show is proud to offer scholarships to support students who are passionate about pursuing a career in STEM fields. These scholarships are intended to help alleviate the financial burden of higher education and encourage students to excel in their chosen disciplines.

Scholarship recipients are selected based on their academic achievements, demonstrated interest in STEM, and a personal essay describing their aspirations. The scholarship can be used for tuition, books, or other educational expenses at an accredited college, university, or technical school. To be eligible, applicants must be high school seniors or current college students residing in Los Angeles County or the surrounding areas. Full details and the application form are available on our website; be sure to submit your application by the specified deadline.

For Educators and Schools

We believe that teachers and schools play a vital role in shaping the next generation of innovators. That's why we offer special opportunities for educators to bring their students to the Air Show and integrate the experience into their curriculum. Field trips to the STEM exhibits provide a unique, real-world connection to concepts taught in the classroom.

Schools interested in participating as exhibitors can also showcase their own STEM programs and projects. This is a fantastic way to highlight student achievements and network with other educators and industry professionals. Upon acceptance, schools will receive permission slips and additional information to help coordinate their visit. We encourage educators to reach out to us with any questions or to discuss how we can tailor the experience to meet their educational goals.

STEM Careers in Aerospace Valley

The Antelope Valley is home to a remarkable concentration of aerospace companies, research facilities, and military installations. Companies like Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center are just a few of the major players driving innovation in the region. These organizations rely on a steady pipeline of talented individuals with strong STEM backgrounds to fill positions in engineering, software development, data analysis, and more.

By attending the Air Show's STEM exhibits, students can gain valuable exposure to the diverse career opportunities available right in their own backyard. They can interact with professionals, learn about different roles, and discover the educational pathways that lead to exciting and rewarding careers. Whether it's designing the next stealth aircraft, developing satellite technology, or programming autonomous systems, the possibilities are endless. We are committed to connecting young minds with the resources and inspiration they need to turn their dreams into reality.