Brand new attraction designed to reach teens early by showcasing the cool aspects of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and the world of opportunities that awaits them
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – September 25, 2013 - The California Capital Airshow (CCA), presented by Sacramento County, today announced the debut of Aerojet Rocketdyne’s Space and Aviation LaunchPad at this year’s Airshow, October 5th and 6th at Mather Airport. LaunchPad is a dynamic and interactive science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) enrichment exhibit targeted to teens that promotes opportunities in STEM-related fields as they consider collegiate and career choices.
A progressive collaboration between the CCA and Aerojet Rocketdyne, the 15,000 square foot pavilion will allow students and their parents the opportunity to enjoy a hands-on educational experience designed to spark the interest of young adults and their involvement with STEM while helping to provide the aerospace industry with a new generation of professionals.
The Nation is facing a shortage of skilled workers in STEM-related employment fields and is expected to have more than 8.6 million of these jobs in 2018 with as many as three million unfilled.
“There is a growing need in our industry for candidates who are educated and experienced in STEM-based fields,” said Warren M. Boley, Jr., president of Aerojet Rocketdyne, one of the region’s largest employers. “A recent survey by the U.S. Department of Commerce indicated that only 33 percent of eighth graders are interested in STEM majors and only 6 percent of high school seniors will get a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field. Aerojet Rocketdyne wants to be an active participant in changing that trend by taking every opportunity we can, as a company, to inspire and stimulate interest at every age.”
LaunchPad seeks to combine students’ love of games and technology with real world application. Filled with aircraft, space artifacts, robots and an aerospace theater, guests can watch demonstrations, participate in games and experience first-hand the clear relationship between the aerospace industry and STEM studies. On display will be the NASA Mars Exploration Rover "Opportunity" full-scale model. The Opportunity Rover will celebrate its 10th year of exploration on Mars this coming January 2014, with many events planned by NASA to recognize this fact. Attendees will also have the opportunity to rub shoulders with men and women who have used their education to change the world. A 60-minute Flight Experience where you will learn what skills are required to obtain a pilot’s license and the opportunity for actual flying time in a simulator is part of the exciting exhibit.
Volunteer counselors, local youth organizations and academic institutions will be available to help interested attendees understand how they can continue their interest in STEM education, including creating a school-to-career blueprint and information on how to join and pursue STEM-related fun and interesting activities long after the show.
The following sponsors and community partners have generously contributed to 2013 California Capital Airshow: Sacramento County, City of Rancho Cordova, Aerojet Rocketdyne, Budweiser, Sacramento Jet Center, Kaiser Permanente, PG&E, SAFE Credit Union and Fox40.
The CCA will be all things “shiny, fast and loud” for all ages and so much more! Tickets are now available online and can be easily purchased at the Airshow web site, http://www.californiacapitalairshow.com/buytickets.php. The Airshow web site will be updated regularly with news, attraction information and more. Fans can follow the Airshow on Facebook and Twitter (#calcapairshow), and now on Instragram (@capitalairshow). High-resolution images are available on the website photo gallery.
About California Capital Airshow
Established in 2004, the California Capital Airshow has become one of the largest and highly- respected shows in the nation. As part of its community relations, the non-profit organization has awarded over 80 scholarships to deserving students from our region with an interest in aviation, aerospace, aeronautics and related fields. For more information about the California Capital Airshow, presented by Sacramento County, please visit www.californiacapitalairshow.com.
Established in 2004, the California Capital Airshow has become one of the largest and highly- respected shows in the nation. As part of its community relations, the non-profit organization has awarded over 80 scholarships to deserving students from our region with an interest in aviation, aerospace, aeronautics and related fields. For more information about the California Capital Airshow, presented by Sacramento County, please visit www.californiacapitalairshow.com.
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