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DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. -- When it comes to inspiring the
next generation of aviators, former 22nd Air Force Commander Maj.
Gen. Stayce Harris knows that continual support and development of
science, technology, engineering and math programs are key to
instilling passion in young people.
During a recent visit to
the U.S. Air Force's Museum of Aviation in Warner Robins, Georgia to
attend the Air Force Reserve change of command ceremony, Harris
welcomed the impromptu opportunity to speak to 18 middle school-aged
girls taking part in the museum's Mission Quest Flight Simulation
program. The group attended the museum's program as part of the
“Spectacles 2016” summer camp hosted by Wesleyan College.
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July 14, 2016 - During a recent visit to the U.S. Air Force's Museum
of Aviation in Warner Robins, Georgia to attend the Air Force
Reserve change of command ceremony, Maj. Gen. Stayce Harris welcomed
the impromptu opportunity to speak to 18 middle school-aged girls
taking part in the museum's Mission Quest Flight Simulation program.
The group attended the museum's program as part of the “Spectacles
2016” summer camp hosted by Wesleyan College. (U.S. Air Force
courtesy photo)
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According to Chrissy Miner, president and chief operating officer
of the Museum of Aviation Foundation, the Mission Quest Flight
Simulation is one of many programs focused on STEM and aviation
heritage that the museum offers.
This particular program is a
hands-on teambuilding experience that gives students a chance to
work with others to solve problems and collectively accomplish a
realistic flying mission, Miner said.
“Our focus is to build
and preserve the legacy of aviation and the Air Force for
generations to come,” she continued. “We do that by making a
continual effort to foster innovation and bridge the gap between the
past and the future.”
Part of bridging that gap is where
mentors and volunteers like Harris come in.
During her time
with the group, Harris encouraged the girls to challenge themselves
and seize opportunities.
“I am so proud to see smart,
ambitious girls like you pursuing your interests in science,
technology, engineering and math,” Harris said. “I want you to know
that tremendous opportunities await you--the sky really is the
limit.”
Harris also shared her insight on pursuing greatness.
“One of the most valuable life lessons I have learned along
the way is that you have to trust in yourself and be persistent in
your goals” she said. “It's my hope that your time here today will
open your eyes to a world of exciting possibilities, and I look
forward to seeing how you bright and motivated young ladies will
become leaders for your generation.”
Miner explained the vital role that guest speakers play in the
success of the museum's educational programs and STEM initiatives.
“It is such an amazing opportunity for these girls to see
someone in the flesh who is a career aviator and soon-to-be three
star general,” Miner said. “Being able to meet people who have had
that kind of success opens up a world of possibilities for them and
gives them something to strive for.”
Melissa Spalding,
education director for the Museum of Aviation, agreed, noting the
dedication of volunteers who support the museum's camps and
programs.
“The outpouring of support we get from people like Maj. Gen.
Harris and the entire Robins Air Force Base community is huge,”
Spalding said. “There are so many wonderful people willing to lend
their time and talents to mentor these young students.”
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July 14, 2016 - Two middle school girl students experience flight
simulation during a recent visit to the U.S. Air Force's Museum of
Aviation in Warner Robins, Georgia. They were among 18 middle
school-aged girls attending the Air Force Reserve change of command
ceremony, Maj. Gen. Stayce Harris and taking part in the museum's
Mission Quest Flight Simulation program. The group attended the
museum's program as part of the “Spectacles 2016” summer camp hosted
by Wesleyan College (U.S. Air Force courtesy photo)
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Having the opportunity to meet and work alongside
engineers and aviators from around the Air Force provides a
memorable experience that further inspires students to
pursue STEM careers, she said.
“The experience our
students get, along with the exposure to mentors, has an
incredible impact on workforce and career development for
students of all ages,” Spalding said.
“To know they've met somebody who's doing the job, and
not only that, they have made it to the rank of
general--that's a big deal,” she explained. “For many of our
students, it's like meeting a celebrity. That really
connects them and makes their experience at the museum
authentic.”
From Miner's perspective, that's what the
museum's programs are all about.
“That is our
ultimate goal--to support interest and enthusiasm in STEM
and aviation career fields,” Miner concluded.
Learn more
about the Museum of Aviation's programs and volunteer opportunities
More information about Air Force K-12 STEM activities and events
Editor's Note: Maj. Gen. ayce Harris has been confirmed by
the U.S. Senate for promotion to Lieutenant General and is in
transition to become the Assistant Vice Chief of Staff and Director
of the Air Staff for the United States Air Force.
By U.S. Air Force TSgt. Jodi Ames
Provided
through DVIDS
Copyright 2016
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