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Tech students learn about internships from NASA representative

Dr. Mitch Krell, University Affairs Officer in the Office of STEM Engagement at Stennis Space Center (SSC), recently visited SciTEC’s NASA Educator Resource Center in the College of Education.

During his visit to the campus, Krell met with members of the UTeachTech program and other STEM majors to discuss internship opportunities at NASA. Interns at NASA work with leading experts and gain valuable experiences as they participate in research and many mission projects.

“Dr. Krell provided important information for the UTeachTech and Louisiana Tech STEM students related to internships,” said Diane Madden, SciTEC Associate Director. “These internships can be a stepping stone into a career with NASA for undergraduates interested in working with the many job opportunities that NASA has to offer.”

This visit comes shortly after Louisiana Tech University was again selected again as the state’s only NASA Educator Research Center (ERC) and a key partner with Stennis Space Center. Educator Resource Centers serve as a resource for teachers and faculty interested in sharing the work of NASA with their students and other stakeholders. This appointment and recognition has continued for the College of Education and SciTEC for 20 years.

“The camps we offer through our NASA ERC provide learning experiences for elementary and middle-grade students they will always remember,” Madden said. “NASA also provides online free STEM lessons that are aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards.”

The ERC also gained new leadership this fall. Dr. Laura Bostick, Associate Director of the UTeachTech program and former NASA Biomedical Engineer, and Madden, former NASA ERC Coordinator, will lead the program for Louisiana Tech.

“Strong and meaningful partnerships like this one involving the NASA Educator Resource Center positively impact our students, faculty, and staff,” Provost Dr. Terry McConathy said. “Our students are well prepared through programs like these, and we know they are uniquely suited to fill competitive internships that can lead to opportunities for long-term employment with industry leaders.”