Since 2013
The mission
Reimagined and solidified during the 2021–22 school year. To inspire a passion for STEM and illuminate the doors it can unlock for students across diverse backgrounds and learning environments.
01What they do
STEM-ED connects educators and volunteers with students through hands-on competitions, most notably the Aerospace Robotics Competition. Students meet coding, aeronautics, robotics, and unmanned flight in the same season.
The competition grew from Colonel Tucker Hamilton (Ret.) and college students Beldon Lin, Kathryn Shepherd-Kinney, Chris Reynolds, and Becky Hill, plus a few personal donations. The team is still all volunteer. The organization is a 501(c)(3). The published financial report lives on the live finances page.
02Values
- Integrity. Demonstrate honesty and fairness.
- Excellence. Strive to reach your highest potential.
- Respect. Uplift and value each other in every interaction.
They hold themselves and each other to those three while they chase the work.
03Objectives
- Provide instruction in STEM fields including robotics, unmanned systems, and aeronautics.
- Offer students competitive challenges that foster innovation.
- Host and promote unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) competitions.
- Support educators with classroom-ready materials and guidance.
- Connect schools with skilled volunteers for mentorship and project support.
04Three goals
Build. Learn about aerospace vehicles.
Code. Design and run code on drones.
Fly. Pilot drones and get FAA certification.