Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum to Launch Transformative Aviation Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 18, 2024

Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum Receives $108,000 Grant from Richard Brooke Foundation to Launch Transformative Aviation Program

 Ashland, NE — The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum is excited to announce it has been awarded $108,000 from the Richard Brooke Foundation to launch its groundbreaking STEM initiative, Touch the Skies.

Set to launch in 2025, Touch the Skies will immerse local students in the dynamic world of flight and aviation through hands-on activities, including pre-flight checks, flight plan plotting, weather analysis, air traffic communication, and takeoff and landing simulations. Leveraging state-of-the-art virtual reality technology and advanced Pilot Pro Simulators, students will gain both theoretical and practical insights into the four forces of flight. The program will culminate in exclusive field trips to Eppley Airfield’s control tower, Jetlinx, and Offutt Air Force Base, providing behind-the-scenes access to aviation operations and real-world applications of STEM concepts.

“Our mission is to inspire the discovery of flight and space exploration through innovative and interactive experiences,” said Clayton Anderson, President and CEO of the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum. “This generous grant from the Richard Brooke Foundation enables us to bridge the gap between education and industry, empowering students to pursue careers in high-demand STEM fields while fostering a lifelong love of learning.”

The program addresses a critical need in Nebraska’s workforce, where over 34,000 high-skill, high-wage jobs are projected annually. More than two-thirds of these positions require higher education, underscoring the importance of equipping young students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in STEM careers. By integrating advanced technology and immersive learning experiences, Touch the Skies aims to prepare students to meet the demands of the 21st-century workforce.

The grant will fund the purchase of 10 Pilot Pro Simulators, virtual reality Oculus sets, transportation, and program sustainability costs, ensuring the program’s longevity and impact. The initiative aligns with the museum’s vision to inspire innovation and discovery, creating transformative opportunities for youth in our community.

For more information on Touch the Skies or to learn how you can support the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum’s mission, please contact:

Michelle Chartrand

Annual/Operations Development Director

Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum
Phone: 402.672.8651 | Email: mchartrand@sacmuseum.org

About the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum

Located in Ashland, Nebraska, the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum is a world-class institution dedicated to preserving the history of aviation and inspiring the future of aerospace exploration. Through its interactive exhibits, STEM programs, and active restoration hangar, the museum serves as a hub for innovation, education, and community engagement.