Challenger Center Launches “Martians of Tomorrow” Campaign for STEM Education

Challenger Center today announced the launch of “Martians of Tomorrow,” a campaign to raise awareness about the importance of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education and inspiring the next generation. Parents, teachers, community members, education leaders, organizations and professionals alike are encouraged to visit www.challenger.org/martians and take a pledge to support students on their journey to become future STEM leaders.

Many students lack the basic understanding of STEM subjects that is required in most industries today. This has a negative impact on students’ ability to succeed in an increasingly competitive workforce and businesses’ ability to fill jobs. A strong STEM foundation is not only critical to the future success of students, but also to the continued success of our industries and economy.

“Today’s students, the Martians of Tomorrow, are our future biologists, engineers, doctors and astronauts and will need to be the most technologically advanced, innovative generation we have ever known,” said Robert Piercey, vice president of education, Challenger Center. “This is why STEM education is more important than ever before and why we are asking everyone to make a commitment to help prepare and transform these students into amazing STEM-wielding explorers, innovators and leaders.”

In addition to pledging a commitment to inspiring the next generation, those who visit www.challenger.org/martians can download educational resources and activities to be used in school or at home and take a Martian quiz to find out what role they would play as #MartiansOfTomorrow. Each Martian role – communications, navigation, biology, robotics, geology, life support, medical, rover, and weather –  correlates to a team in Challenger Center’s newest simulated space-themed mission, Expedition Mars. A second phase of the #MartiansOfTomorrow campaign will include career spotlights featuring real-world STEM professionals.

For more information about #MartiansOfTomorrow, visit www.challenger.org/martians.

About Challenger Center
As a leader in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, Challenger Center and its network of Challenger Learning Centers provide more than 250,000 students annually with experiential education programs to engage students in hands-on learning opportunities. These programs strengthen knowledge in STEM subjects and inspire students to pursue careers in these important fields. Challenger Center was created to honor the crew of shuttle flight STS-51-L. Learn more at www.challenger.org. Connect on Facebook @ChallengerCtr and Twitter @ChallengerCtr.

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Media Contact:
Lisa Vernal
Challenger Center
202-827-1573
lvernal@challenger.org