Neosho, Mo. — High school students recently got a unique opportunity to learn about STEM careers directly from astronauts aboard the International Space Station. The event, part of the Pre-Employment Transition Services Program for Newton and McDonald counties, aimed to inspire students with disabilities to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.
Although a scheduling conflict prevented a live feed, students had their questions answered by astronauts and also heard from local professionals working in STEM fields. The message was clear: you don't have to leave home to reach for the stars.
"Because it's not just the jobs that they might do that are science related, but all those jobs that support those jobs that are science related are really important," said Kim Pudlowski, University of Mo Pre-Employment Transition Services Program coordinator. "That's what we hope to inspire our students about today."
Marly Ramsour, Process Coordinator for Secondary in Neosho, emphasized the importance of exposure: "For our students, knowing about STEM fields is really important. A lot of them just don't know what's out there. To have this opportunity to learn about something that is very local and very global at the same time is really exciting."
This first-time program won't be the last—plans are already in place for future sessions with astronauts, ensuring continued inspiration for students to pursue STEM careers.
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