AFRL hosts STEM Signing Day for local high school students

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFRL) – The Air Force Research Laboratory Aerospace Systems Directorate celebrated Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Signing Day for approximately 40 local students, July 30, during a virtual event.

Students from the greater Dayton area that attended AFRL summer internship programs were recognized for their commitment to pursuing higher education and future careers in the STEM field.

“STEM Signing Day is similar to high school athletes who participate in National Signing Day, in which they broadcast to their high schools, local news stations and sometimes national channels, their intent to commit to a specific college,” said Dr. Deniese Key, the Aerospace Systems Directorate learning officer. “In a similar fashion, we want to generate the same excitement for students who commit to STEM careers.”

The goal of the AFRL STEM outreach program is to foster a new generation of scientists, mathematicians, engineers and technologists who will one day discover, and problem solve in the nation’s defense laboratories and other supporting U.S. companies.

“As an electrical engineer that got my start in Dayton Public Schools, I am very excited to recognize the next generation of scientists, engineers and mathematicians,” said Col. Will Storms, the Deputy Director of the Aerospace Systems Directorate. “This program provides rewarding opportunities for students and opens the door for future career opportunities with AFRL.”

The Air Force Research Laboratory Aerospace Systems Directorate hosted STEM Signing Day for local students virtually, July 30, 2021. AFRL leadership, along with local city leaders, celebrated these students’ commitment to STEM. (U.S. Air Force photo screenshot/Rachel Simones)