The National Air and Space Museum hopes to change representation in science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) fields by engaging and empowering our Soaring High Explorers (S.H.E.) to seek out and succeed in STEAM fields. In summer 2025, we’ll hold our annual S.H.E. Can STEAM Summer Camp, serving local and underrepresented communities in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. 

Sixty Explorers will participate in this one-of-a-kind free camp introducing them to the science of flight and exposing them to diverse careers in aviation. S.H.E. Can campers meet with aviation experts, participate in exciting hands-on design challenges and even have the opportunity to earn their wings and fly with a certified flight instructor.

Applications open for summer 2025 sessions on December 16, 2024. 

By The Numbers

Data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Labor Force Statistics from the Current Population Survey (January 25, 2024)  and U.S. Civil Airmen Statistics for 2022.

9%

of commercial pilots are women

4%

of aircraft pilots and flight engineers are Black or African American

11%

of aircraft pilots and flight engineers are Hispanic or Latino

4%

of flight engineers are women

What to Expect

Aimed at building lifelong relationships with local students, our camp consists of a whirlwind of activities. At this camp, S.H.E. Can:

When and Where

Students can participate in one of two sessions, hosted at the Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia.

   

Session One (New Campers)

Wednesday, June 18 - Tuesday, July 1
8:00 am - 3:00 pm ET

Session Two (New Campers)

Monday, July 28 - Friday, August 8 
8:00 am - 3:00 pm ET

Each session will consist of 30 students. Lunch, snacks, and transportation to activities are provided. 

How to Participate

All Explorers with a passion for learning and aviation are asked to submit an application. Campers should live in DC, Maryland, Virginia, and preference is given to potential campers who attend a Title I school or Title I eligible school or qualify for free or reduced lunches. The camp is free for all participants. Lunch, snacks, and transportation to activities are provided.

For New Explorers, campers must be in grades six through eight during the 2024-2025 school year.
 

Applications should include the following:

  • A few sentences about why you’d like to participate
  • A recommendation from a teacher or community leader that speaks to your interest in aviation
  • Whether you attend a Title I school or qualify for free or reduced lunch

Applications are reviewed and accepted on a rolling admission basis. Applications close March 31. 

S.H.E. Can STEAM Summer Camp Sponsors
Kislak Family Foundation
Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation
DaRin Butz Foundation  
Jamie and James Coss Charitable Fund
Bob Catell