The AIAA Foundation is calling on the aerospace community to rally in support of STEM education as it prepares for the 2025 Day of Giving on 2 December. As industry demand for engineers and scientists continues to outpace the available workforce, we know that investing in early education and student engagement is more critical than ever.
This year, the Foundation reported significant growth across its programs, which aim to strengthen the pipeline of future researchers, engineers, and explorers. Initiatives such as Design/Build/Fly and AIAA Classroom Grants continue to provide hands-on learning opportunities that spark student curiosity and help bridge the gap between classroom instruction and aerospace careers.
Several key impact metrics highlight the breadth of this year’s outreach and investment:
- 1,203 university students attended seven AIAA Regional Student Conferences
- 80 university students participated in the Rising Stars Program at AIAA Forums
- 4,950 university students took part in hands-on competitions such as Design/Build/Fly
- $166,250 awarded in scholarships and graduate awards
- $77,500 awarded to K–12 educators
- 46,412 students reached through AIAA Student Branches, Technical Committees, and Sections
- 1,433,200 K–12 students engaged through the Exploration Generation rocketry curriculum, developed in partnership with the National Science Teaching Association and Estes Education
On Tuesday, 2 December, join us in the Day of Giving to help raise $100,000 in support of these vital programs. Your contribution, of any size, will help launch the next generation of aerospace leaders. All donations made through the first week of December will go to the Day of Giving.
Donations can be made online at aiaa.org/foundation or submitted by mail.
