In a new collaboration with Honeywell, students from Operation Breakthrough’s Ignition Lab participated in Honeywell’s Space Camp Week at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, during the fall of 2024. This marks the first time students from the Kansas City-based program have attended the prestigious camp, offering them an immersive experience in astronaut training, STEM education and space exploration simulations.
The week-long program is designed to inspire and equip the next generation of engineers and scientists through hands-on learning. Participants engaged in a variety of activities, including simulated space missions, rocket construction, robotics challenges and exposure to NASA-inspired technology. Additionally, they had the unique opportunity to collaborate with aerospace professionals, gaining insight into potential STEM career pathways.
“This is an incredible opportunity for our students to see what’s possible for their futures,” said Mary Esselman, CEO of Operation Breakthrough. “Many of them have never traveled outside of Kansas City. To be part of such an incredible camp is truly life-changing, and we are deeply grateful to Honeywell and KCNSC for making this possible.”
The impact of the program was evident in the students’ enthusiasm and engagement. “It was amazing! I got to see what it’s like to be an astronaut and work as a team on a space mission,” shared one student participant. “I never thought I would get to do something like this.”
Facilitator Evelyn Etienne, who accompanied the students, highlighted the program’s transformative effect. “Watching these students grow throughout the week was incredible. They were challenged in new ways but rose to the occasion, demonstrating resilience, teamwork and a newfound passion for STEM.”
Throughout the week, students participated in intensive astronaut training exercises, engineering challenges and real-world problem-solving activities. They explored space navigation techniques, experienced the G-force simulator and conducted experiments similar to those performed on the International Space Station. By providing a hands-on approach to STEM learning, the program aims to prepare students for future careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
As the students returned to Kansas City, they brought back not only new technical skills but also a renewed sense of confidence and aspiration for their futures. Operation Breakthrough hopes to establish Space Camp as an annual opportunity, ensuring more students have the chance to reach for the stars.
