The Michael P. Anderson Memorial Aerospace Program (MPA) centers around and celebrates the contributions of the Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) community to aviation and space.
MPA endeavors to inspire curiosity and build community among middle school students (grades 6-9*) with emphasis to involve those historically excluded from education and career opportunities in aviation and space. Through fun and engaging activities, utilizing the Museum’s exhibits and educational resources, MPA sparks students’ interests in aviation and space by connecting them to like-minded peers and mentorship from STEM professionals in the aerospace community.
- Includes virtual meet-ups, in-person activities at the Museum and fun field trips
- Increase awareness of BIPOC, STEM professionals.
- Strengthen skills and confidence in STEM-related topics.
- Learn about post-secondary STEM education and careers, and the resources and requirements to pursue a career in space or flight.
- Mentoring by peer Ambassadors and aerospace industry leaders.
MPA is designed in the legacy of and is named in honor of Washington State native and payload commander of the Space Shuttle Columbia, Michael P. Anderson.
The entire program is offered at no-cost!
Program Details
Grade Level: 6th-9th*
Dates: February through June (4 to 6 hours per month)
Fee: No Cost
Requirements:
- Must be a Washington State resident. (Preference is given to applicants who reside within the Puget Sound Region.)
- Must be in Grade 6, 7, 8 or 9* at the time of the application. (Students who identify as black, indigenous and/or a person of color are encouraged to apply. All are welcome!)
- Participate in 80% of program activities, totaling about 4 to 6 hours per month.
- Must have internet access and a computer, phone or tablet to access virtual experiences.
- Participants must adhere to the pursuit of academic success, safety, social growth and collaboration.
*NOTE: 9th grade applicants must have previously participated in MPA.
How to Apply for MPA:
The application for 2025 opens in December. If you would like to be notified when registration opens, please click the link below to fill out our interest form.
Questions? Please reach out to MPA@museumofflight.org.
MPA Mentor Program
Mentors are essential to the success of the MPA program. Mentors help students envision themselves in a variety of space and aviation careers with a specific focus on the contributions of BIPOC (black, indigenous, person of color) professionals.
Mentors enhance the MPA program through their connections, provide encouragement and motivation by sharing their success stories and obstacles and provide insight on what it means to work in aerospace. Mentors help set a course for and validate the dreams of MPA students.
Mentors possess a commitment to diversity and inclusion, inspiring students who are underrepresented in aviation and space (low-income, youth of color, foster youth and first-generation students). While serving as a role model for all participants and welcoming all students at the events to ensure they feel seen, embraced and validated.
What to Expect:
Dates: January through June
Total Time: up to 50 hours
Commitment:
- Commit to 5-10 hours per month of in-person and remote participation
- Serve as mentor to (15) MPA students
- Lead team-building Activities
- Serve as chaperone on field trips
- Share personal education and career experiences
- Foster community and support an environment of safety, social growth and collaboration
Become a Mentor!
Volunteer for the MPA program and help us provide guidance and advice to learners on pursuing STEM careers, sharing college and career experiences, and serving as a positive role model to ensure all learners feel seen, heard and validated.
MPA Mentor Description & Applicaiton
Questions? Please reach out to MPA@museumofflight.org.
Thank you to the following sponsors for their generous support of the Michael P. Anderson Memorial Aerospace Program.
