Sponsorship Opportunities Available for "Go For Launch!" Event in Grand Ledge, MI

Grand Ledge, MI – Higher Orbits and the National Defense Industrial Association - Michigan Chapter (NDIA-MI) are calling on local businesses and organizations to sponsor the upcoming Go For Launch! event, a two-day space-themed program that uses space exploration to ignite student interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM). Taking place on December 14-15, 2024, this event, hosted in Grand Ledge, MI, will bring together high school students (grades 8-12) and an astronaut for hands-on STEM experiences that also build teamwork, leadership, and communication skills.

The Go For Launch! program offers a unique opportunity for students to collaborate with space industry professionals and engage in space exploration challenges designed to inspire the next generation of engineers, scientists, and innovators. Through the support of sponsors, this program can continue to reach more students in Michigan, helping to cultivate a skilled STEM workforce ready to contribute to industries critical to space and national defense.

Over the course of two days, participants will develop leadership, communication, and teamwork skills through a series of space-related challenges, giving them hands-on experience in the exciting world of space exploration. Students will also gain insights from a real astronaut, adding a once-in-a-lifetime perspective to the event.

This initiative is crucial in helping grow Michigan’s future STEM workforce, which will play a pivotal role in supporting the nation's space and defense industries. NDIA-MI, a 501(c)(3) organization, has partnered with Higher Orbits to expand the program’s reach in Michigan, creating opportunities for local students to pursue STEM careers.

Higher Orbits and NDIA-MI are currently seeking sponsors to help make this program accessible to students from the local community. Sponsorship contributions will directly support program resources, student participation, and ensure Michigan's youth have the chance to be part of this extraordinary educational experience.

Michigan, together with business, education, and community partners, is embarking on a journey to make Michigan a world leader in STEM education. The work of the MiSTEM Network is to build on existing STEM networks to create a STEM ecosystem that supports students, educators and businesses.

“Sponsorship of Go For Launch! is an investment in our future STEM workforce. These programs provide students with hands-on experiences that inspire and prepare them for the many careers on the horizon in science, technology, engineering, and beyond,” said Megan Schrauben, MiSTEM Director. "We encourage more organizations and businesses to support programs like this that help students discover new possibilities through innovative educational experiences like this."

Jennifer Hitchcock, a volunteer with the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA-MI) Michigan Chapter who is overseeing the event in Grand Ledge, emphasized the importance of community support in making this program a success. “Sponsorship will enable local students to participate in Go For Launch! and gain exposure to STEM fields in ways that traditional classroom settings cannot offer. It’s a tremendous opportunity to help students find their passion and ignite their curiosity for the world of space and defense."

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, or to contribute to this groundbreaking initiative, visit the event page at Higher Orbits Go For Launch! Grand Ledge or contact Michelle Lucas at Michelle@higherorbits.org or Jennifer Hitchcock at garyjen1@comcast.net.

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About MiSTEM
MiSTEM convenes a statewide network of leaders in education, business and local communities to empower the next generation of innovators. Working together to prepare learners for the vital, high-demand careers of the future.

About Higher Orbits
Higher Orbits is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring and educating students through the wonder of space exploration. Through its innovative programs, Higher Orbits uses space as a platform to launch student interest in STEM and STEAM disciplines while teaching leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.

About NDIA-MI
The National Defense Industrial Association – Michigan Chapter (NDIA-MI) focuses on fostering collaboration between the defense industry, academia, and government to provide the nation’s warfighters with the equipment and technologies necessary to accomplish their missions.