Rochester, MI – The Women of the Aerospace Industry Association of Michigan (WAIAM) is proud to announce the fourth annual Michigan Youth Future Flight Challenge (MYFFC)—a free, virtual aerospace design competition open to Michigan students in grades 4 through 8. The challenge empowers students to work in teams, connect with professionals in aerospace, and design innovative flight solutions to real-world problems.

Registration is open and a kick off event will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025. Final team presentations are to be delivered virtually on Saturday, November 8, 2025. Throughout the competition, each team of two to six students will select a pre-determined challenge statement and collaborate to develop a unique flight-based solution. Teams will be guided by mentors from Michigan’s aerospace industry, offering students hands-on insight into careers in STEM and beyond.

“The Michigan Youth Future Flight Challenge is more than a competition—it’s an opportunity to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers. By connecting students with real aerospace professionals and encouraging creative teamwork, we’re opening doors to exciting futures in STEM that many may have never imagined possible,” said Lissa Barron, Committee Member of Women of the Aerospace Industry Association of Michigan (WAIAM).

The MYFFC welcomes students of all interests—from STEM and engineering to art, business, and marketing—highlighting the broad range of careers available in the aerospace sector. All participants will receive an official event T-shirt, and top teams will be eligible to win prizes of up to $1,000.

In 2024, the challenge drew 80 students and 30 mentors from across Michigan. This year, WAIAM will continue its partnership with Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore (GSMISTS) and the MiSTEM Network to expand outreach and participation. Girl Scouts who complete the challenge will earn the Business Jumpstart Badge.

“One of the most powerful aspects of the Michigan Youth Future Flight Challenge is that it welcomes every kind of thinker and dreamer. Aerospace is a team effort, and this challenge shows students how their unique skills can make a real impact in the industry,” said Rachel Plowman, Co-Chair of Women of the Aerospace Industry Association of Michigan (WAIAM).

WAIAM is an affinity group of the Aerospace Industry Association of Michigan (AIAM). Its members advocate for aerospace education and career pathways through mentorship, outreach, and representation, working to increase visibility and access to aerospace careers for students statewide.

The Michigan Girls Future Flight Challenge is proudly supported by the AIAM Foundation, aligning with its mission to build Michigan’s talent pipeline and inspire the next generation of aerospace professionals.

To register and learn more about the Michigan Girls Future Flight Challenge, visit: www.aiamnow.com/girls-future-flight-challenge