NASA Administrator Charles Bolden speaks with young professionals about their project during the annual DEVELOP Earth Science Application Showcase at NASA headquarters Tuesday, August 5, 2014. The Earth Science Applications Showcase highlights the work of over 150 participants in the 10-week DEVELOP program that started in June. The DEVELOP Program bridges the gap between NASA Earth science and society, building capacity in both its participants and partner organizations, to better prepare them to handle the challenges that face our society and future generations. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
NASA Administrator Charles Bolden speaks with young professionals about their project on New England water resources during the annual DEVELOP Earth Science Application Showcase at NASA headquarters Tuesday, August 5, 2014. The Earth Science Applications Showcase highlights the work of over 150 participants in the 10-week DEVELOP program that started in June. The DEVELOP Program bridges the gap between NASA Earth science and society, building capacity in both its participants and partner organizations, to better prepare them to handle the challenges that face our society and future generations. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
NASA Administrator Charles Bolden asks young professionals about their projects after posing for a group photo during the annual DEVELOP Earth Science Application Showcase at NASA headquarters Tuesday, August 5, 2014. The Earth Science Applications Showcase highlights the work of over 150 participants in the 10-week DEVELOP program that started in June. The DEVELOP Program bridges the gap between NASA Earth science and society, building capacity in both its participants and partner organizations, to better prepare them to handle the challenges that face our society and future generations. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
NASA Administrator Charles Bolden poses for a selfie after a quick rap performance by some young professionals during the annual DEVELOP Earth Science Application Showcase at NASA headquarters Tuesday, August 5, 2014. The Earth Science Applications Showcase highlights the work of over 150 participants in the 10-week DEVELOP program that started in June. The DEVELOP Program bridges the gap between NASA Earth science and society, building capacity in both its participants and partner organizations, to better prepare them to handle the challenges that face our society and future generations. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals discuss their projects during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Students and young professionals discuss their projects during the 2023 DEVELOP Day, Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters to present their research. This year marks the 25th year of DEVELOP, a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Students and young professionals discuss their projects during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Students and young professionals discuss their projects during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Students and young professionals discuss their projects during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Students and young professionals discuss their projects during the 2023 DEVELOP Day, Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters to present their research. This year marks the 25th year of DEVELOP, a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Students and young professionals discuss their projects during the 2023 DEVELOP Day, Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters to present their research. This year marks the 25th year of DEVELOP, a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Students and young professionals discuss their projects during the 2023 DEVELOP Day, Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters to present their research. This year marks the 25th year of DEVELOP, a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine is seen during the Global Networking Forum Young Professionals Town Hall at the 70th International Astronautical Congress, Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2019 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine is seen during the Global Networking Forum Young Professionals Town Hall at the 70th International Astronautical Congress, Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2019 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Michael Gao presents his project on Southeast Asian disasters during the annual DEVELOP Earth Science Application Showcase at NASA headquarters Tuesday, August 5, 2014. The Earth Science Applications Showcase highlights the work of over 150 participants in the 10-week DEVELOP program that started in June. The DEVELOP Program bridges the gap between NASA Earth science and society, building capacity in both its participants and partner organizations, to better prepare them to handle the challenges that face our society and future generations. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Ed Hoffman and Annie Caraccio discuss the 'Young Professional's Perspective at NASA' during the final day of a weeklong series called 'Masters with Masters.' Hoffman, NASA's chief Knowledge officer, and Caraccio, a chemical engineer in the Engineering and Technology Directorate at Kennedy, were joined by Philip Harris, an International Operations engineer from the Johnson Space Center via a television link with NASA's office in Moscow. Photo credit: NASA_Jim Grossmann
NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine, left, and Jackelynne Silva-Martinez, an Aerospace Engineer in Mission Planning Operations at NASA’s Johnson Space Center are seen during the Global Networking Forum Young Professionals Town Hall at the 70th International Astronautical Congress, Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2019 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
A member of the audience records a video of NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine and Jackelynne Silva-Martinez, an Aerospace Engineer in Mission Planning Operations at NASA’s Johnson Space Centeris seen during the Global Networking Forum Young Professionals Town Hall at the 70th International Astronautical Congress, Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2019 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine and Jackelynne Silva-Martinez, an Aerospace Engineer in Mission Planning Operations at NASA’s Johnson Space Center are seen during the Global Networking Forum Young Professionals Town Hall at the 70th International Astronautical Congress, Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2019 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Students and young professionals discuss their projects at the Earth Science Applications Showcase Wednesday, August 1, 2018 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Every summer, participants in NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals discuss their projects at the Earth Science Applications Showcase Wednesday, August 1, 2018 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Every summer, participants in NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Ed Hoffman and Annie Caraccio discuss the 'Young Professional's Perspective at NASA' during the final day of a weeklong series called 'Masters with Masters.' Hoffman, NASA's chief Knowledge officer, and Caraccio, a chemical engineer in the Engineering and Technology Directorate at Kennedy, were joined by Philip Harris, an International Operations engineer from the Johnson Space Center via a television link with NASA's office in Moscow. Photo credit: NASA_Jim Grossmann
Students and young professionals discuss their projects at the Earth Science Applications Showcase Wednesday, August 1, 2018 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Every summer, participants in NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
The Science Cheerleaders perform at a Women's History Month event for middle school and high school girls on Wednesday, March 16, 2011 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. The Science Cheerleaders are a group professional cheerleaders-turned-scientists and engineers who challenge stereotypes while helping to inspire young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math. Photo Credit: (NASA/Carla Cioffi)
Jackelynne Silva-Martinez, an Aerospace Engineer in Mission Planning Operations at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, right, asks NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine a question during the Global Networking Forum Young Professionals Town Hall at the 70th International Astronautical Congress, Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2019 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
The Science Cheerleaders perform at a Women's History Month event for middle school and high school girls on Wednesday, March 16, 2011 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. The Science Cheerleaders are a group professional cheerleaders-turned-scientists and engineers who challenge stereotypes while helping to inspire young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math. Photo Credit: (NASA/Carla Cioffi)
Young visitors to NASA's John C. Stennis Space Center prepare to launch 'stomp rockets' during STEM-Ulate to Innovate activities at the facility July 13. The NASA Foundations of Influence, Relationships, Success and Teamwork (FIRST) Team sponsored STEM-Ulate to Innovate for more than 100 children ages 9-11. Children from area Boys & Girls Clubs participated in hands-on activities, presentations and demonstrations by professional engineers, all designed to promote the relevance of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Students and young professionals discuss their projects at the Earth Science Applications Showcase Wednesday, August 1, 2018 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Every summer, participants in NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals discuss their projects at the Earth Science Applications Showcase Wednesday, August 1, 2018 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Every summer, participants in NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Ed Hoffman and Annie Caraccio discuss the 'Young Professional's Perspective at NASA' during the final day of a weeklong series called 'Masters with Masters.' Hoffman is NASA's chief Knowledge officer and Caraccio is a chemical engineer in the agency's Engineering and Technology Directorate at Kennedy. Photo credit: NASA_Jim Grossmann
NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine, left, and Jackelynne Silva-Martinez, an Aerospace Engineer in Mission Planning Operations at NASA’s Johnson Space Center listen to a question from a member of the audience during the Global Networking Forum Young Professionals Town Hall at the 70th International Astronautical Congress, Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2019 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Students and young professionals discuss their projects at the Earth Science Applications Showcase Wednesday, August 1, 2018 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Every summer, participants in NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals share the results of their DEVELOP Project, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer early career researchers from NASA’s DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where early career researchers work on Earth science projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and provide research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals share the results of their DEVELOP Project, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer early career researchers from NASA’s DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where early career researchers work on Earth science projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and provide research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals share the results of their DEVELOP Project, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer early career researchers from NASA’s DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where early career researchers work on Earth science projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and provide research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals share the results of their DEVELOP Project, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer early career researchers from NASA’s DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where early career researchers work on Earth science projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and provide research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals share the results of their DEVELOP Project, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer early career researchers from NASA’s DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where early career researchers work on Earth science projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and provide research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals share the results of their DEVELOP Project, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer early career researchers from NASA’s DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where early career researchers work on Earth science projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and provide research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals share the results of their DEVELOP Project, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer early career researchers from NASA’s DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where early career researchers work on Earth science projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and provide research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals share the results of their DEVELOP Project, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer early career researchers from NASA’s DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where early career researchers work on Earth science projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and provide research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals share the results of their DEVELOP Project, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer early career researchers from NASA’s DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where early career researchers work on Earth science projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and provide research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals share the results of their DEVELOP Project, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer early career researchers from NASA’s DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where early career researchers work on Earth science projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and provide research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals share the results of their DEVELOP Project, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer early career researchers from NASA’s DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where early career researchers work on Earth science projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and provide research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals share the results of their DEVELOP Project, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer early career researchers from NASA’s DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where early career researchers work on Earth science projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and provide research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals share the results of their DEVELOP Project, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer early career researchers from NASA’s DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where early career researchers work on Earth science projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and provide research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals share the results of their DEVELOP Project, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer early career researchers from NASA’s DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where early career researchers work on Earth science projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and provide research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals share the results of their DEVELOP Project, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer early career researchers from NASA’s DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where early career researchers work on Earth science projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and provide research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals share the results of their DEVELOP Project, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer early career researchers from NASA’s DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where early career researchers work on Earth science projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and provide research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Students and young professionals share the results of their DEVELOP Project, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer early career researchers from NASA’s DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where early career researchers work on Earth science projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and provide research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Student teams representing Florida and several out-of-state areas display and work on their robots for the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Student competitors listen to game rules before the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The audience anxiously awaits a referee's decision during competition of student teams in the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The student team dressed in pink is a coordinated effort cosponsored by NASA KSC and representing Rockledge, Cocoa Beach and Viera High Schools in Central Florida. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A Kissimmee, Fla., team (right) prepares its robot for competition with a New Jersey team (center) during the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Center Director Bill Parsons (left) greets the Lt. Governor of the State of Florida, Jeff Kottkamp, at the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
Sandra Cauffman, acting Director of the Earth Sciences Division of the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters, speaks during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
NASA Deputy Administrator Jim Morhard speaks during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Capacity Building Program Manager for NASA's Applied Sciences Program (Earth Science Division) Nancy Searby speaks during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy delivers closing remarks during the 2023 DEVELOP Day, Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters to present their research. This year marks the 25th year of DEVELOP, a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy delivers closing remarks during the 2023 DEVELOP Day, Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters to present their research. This year marks the 25th year of DEVELOP, a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Kenton Ross, DEVELOP's National Science Advisor, speaks about SICA during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Emily Sylak-Glassman, Program Manager for the Applied Sciences Program in NASA's Earth Science Divison, speaks during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Emily Sylak-Glassman, Program Manager for the Applied Sciences Program in NASA's Earth Science Divison, speaks during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
NASA Deputy Administrator Jim Morhard speaks during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Sarah Aldama, project lead for DEVELOP Dominican Republic Disasters, speaks about mapping landslide susceptibility and exposure in the Dominican Republic using NASA's earth observation data during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
NASA Deputy Administrator Jim Morhard speaks during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Thomas Zurbuchen, Associate Administrator for NASA's Science Mission Directorate, speaks during the 2018 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Cindy Schmidt, a research scientist in the Earth Science Division at NASA's Ames Research Center, speaks about the Indigenous Peoples Pilot and drought monitoring in the Navajo Nation during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
NASA Director of Applied Sciences Program (Earth Science Division) Lawrence Friedl speaks during the 2016 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Roger Ly speaks about DEVELOP's Santa Monica Mountains Ecological Forecasting III project during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Andrés Rodriguez, Agricultural Attaché at the Embassy of Chile, delivers closing remarks during the 2023 DEVELOP Day, Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters to present their research. This year marks the 25th year of DEVELOP, a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Trina Dyal, Director of the Science Directorate at NASA’s Langley Research Center, delivers closing remarks during the 2023 DEVELOP Day, Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters to present their research. This year marks the 25th year of DEVELOP, a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Michael Freilich, Director of the Earth Science Division at NASA Headquarters, speaks during the 2018 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Thomas Zurbuchen, Associate Administrator for NASA's Science Mission Directorate, speaks during the 2016 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Capacity Building Program Manager for NASA's Applied Sciences Program (Earth Science Division) Nancy Searby speaks during the 2018 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Africa Flores, Land Cover and Land Use Change Theme Lead for SERVIR, speaks during the 2018 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Max Dunsker speaks about the DEVELOP Kansas Agriculture and Food Security Project, which modeled soil drydown parameters for drought mitigation, during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy delivers closing remarks during the 2023 DEVELOP Day, Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters to present their research. This year marks the 25th year of DEVELOP, a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Mike Ruiz, former program manager for DEVELOP, delivers closing remarks during the 2023 DEVELOP Day, Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters to present their research. This year marks the 25th year of DEVELOP, a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Elizabeth Hook, outreach coordinator for NASA's Applied Remote Sensing Training (ARSET) Program speaks about ARSET and its impact during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
NASA Director of Applied Sciences Program (Earth Science Division) Lawrence Friedl speaks during the 2018 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Alana Higgins speaks about water resources in Belize during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
NASA astronaut Doug Wheelock, left, is joined by a panel of young professionals from NASA centers across the country: Farah Alibay, a systems engineer working on the Mars 2020 rover at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Alexis Vance, a Pathways student engineering trainee at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Victor Joel Cabezas Tapia, a Navigation, Guidance, and Control Engineer at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, and Breanne Stichler, a mechanical engineer in the Crawlers, Transporters and Structures group at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, during an interactive STEM discussion with students attending the 70th International Astronautical Congress, Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2019, at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Capacity Building Program Manager for NASA's Applied Sciences Program (Earth Science Division) Nancy Searby speaks during the 2018 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Thomas Zurbuchen, Associate Administrator for NASA's Science Mission Directorate, speaks during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Thomas Zurbuchen, Associate Administrator for NASA's Science Mission Directorate, speaks during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy delivers closing remarks during the 2023 DEVELOP Day, Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters to present their research. This year marks the 25th year of DEVELOP, a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Mike Ruiz, former program manager for DEVELOP, delivers closing remarks during the 2023 DEVELOP Day, Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters to present their research. This year marks the 25th year of DEVELOP, a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisors from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Sandra Cauffman, acting Director of the Earth Sciences Division of the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters, speaks during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Sandra Cauffman, acting Director of the Earth Sciences Division of the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters, speaks during the 2019 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
NASA Director of Applied Sciences Program (Earth Science Division) Lawrence Friedl speaks during the 2018 Annual Earth Science Applications Showcase, Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Every summer students and young professionals from NASA’s Applied Sciences’ DEVELOP National Program come to NASA Headquarters and present their research projects. DEVELOP is a training and development program where students work on Earth science research projects, mentored by science advisers from NASA and partner agencies, and extend research results to local communities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
“When I started in the aerospace industry, I was shocked by how outnumbered I was. At my first job, I was the only woman in a group of 35 people. I was the youngest by 15 years. And I was like ‘wow, okay. This is surprising.’ "As I got older and had more professional experiences, I started working with American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. I was the first young professional liaison to their board of directors… so I was always trying to do things to encourage young professionals to get more involved. Over time, I started to do more and more work with university students, and then high school students. "That’s the fun part of outreach — I not only get to inspire kids, I also inspire myself. It reminds me to pick my head up at that 35,000 foot-level and say, ‘you know what? This is pretty cool.' "I’m selfish. I want to see more women go into engineering. I think there’s a lot of data on how more diversity on an engineering team makes a better product. Companies that have more diversity in their leadership have better profits. I want to see more women in the workforce. I want to see more women in technical fields. I want to see more women in technical leadership.” — Nicole Smith, Chief of Exploration Systems Office, Glenn Research Center Orion - EM-1 - Artemis Spacecraft Arrival at Mansfield Lahm Airport, Transportation to Plum Brook Station and Installation in the Space Environment Complex, SEC Thermal Vacuum Chamber
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10, Center Director Bill Parsons (left) talks to students from Titusville, Fla., about their robot. The team is cosponsored by ASRC Aerospace and The Boeing Company, and represents Astronaut and Titusville High Schools. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10, Center Director Bill Parsons (center) dons the pink wig that represents team no. 233, composed of students from Rockledge, Cocoa Beach and Viera High Schools in Central Florida. The team is cosponsored by NASA KSC. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Center Director Bill Parsons talks to an audience primarily of students during the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10. This was Parsons' first year attending the event as center director. An alumnus of UCF, Parsons also serves on the FIRST Executive Advisory Board. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Competing robots try to loop the large metal target with colored rings. The robots are products of student teams taking part in the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Center Director Bill Parsons talks to guests at the VIP luncheon held during the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10. This was Parsons' first year attending the event as center director. An alumnus of UCF, Parsons also serves on the FIRST Executive Advisory Board. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10, Center Director Bill Parsons talks to the NASA-sponsored team, known as the Pink Team, from Rockledge, Cocoa Beach and Viera High Schools in Central Florida. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Center Director Bill Parsons (right) talks with students of another NASA-sponsored robotic team during the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10. Next to Parsons is Lisa Malone, director of External Relations at Kennedy Space Center. The students of team 1592, the Bionic Tigers, represent the cosponsors Analex Corporation and NASA Launch Services Program and Cocoa High School in Central Florida. Participating since 2005, this is the first year for this team to receive NASA financial support. They were mentored by the Pink Team. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During the FIRST robotics event held at the University of Central Florida Arena March 8-10, Center Director Bill Parsons takes a turn on the Segway® Personal Transporter (PT), designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen. The FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions designed by FIRST founder Dean Kamen and Dr. Woodie Flowers, chairman and vice chairman of the Executive Advisory Board respectively, and a committee of engineers and other professionals. FIRST redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett