Cleveland High School Career and Technical Education students recently had the opportunity to take learning beyond the classroom during NASA CTE Day at Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama.

Twenty-five students from Cleveland High School’s Engineering & Robotics and Welding programs participated in the experience, giving them a closer look at how the skills they are building in the classroom can open doors to careers in aerospace, engineering, advanced manufacturing, technology and the skilled trades.

One of the most memorable parts of the day was a behind-the-scenes look at the engineering and construction of components for NASA’s next Artemis mission. Students were able to see firsthand the precision, creativity, teamwork and technical expertise that go into preparing flight hardware before it is eventually sent to Kennedy Space Center in preparation for launch.

For many students, the experience helped make the connection between what they are learning now and what their future could look like. Skills such as engineering design, robotics, welding, fabrication, problem-solving and teamwork were no longer just part of a classroom assignment. Students were able to see those same skills being used by professionals working on some of the nation’s most exciting aerospace projects.

Students especially enjoyed learning about innovative manufacturing techniques, including 3D printing with simulated lunar material, as well as the specialized welding processes used in aerospace applications. When asked about their favorite parts of the day, students pointed to those demonstrations as some of the highlights of the visit.

Students also had the opportunity to hear directly from professionals working at Marshall Space Flight Center. Tim Austin, Assistant Manager in the Logistics Management Office; Melissa Costa, Propulsion and Fluids Test Engineer; and Tom Vaughn, Aerospace Materials Engineer, shared their career experiences and answered questions about education, training and the many pathways available within the aerospace industry.

Their stories also showed students that there is no single path to a career in aerospace. Each shared a different journey, reminding students that a wide range of interests, experiences and technical skills can lead to meaningful opportunities in the field.

The visit built on student interest sparked last spring when former NASA scientist and engineer David Jerrell visited Cleveland High School. Jerrell, who spent more than 24 years at Kennedy Space Center, spoke with students about NASA, commercial space exploration and career opportunities within the growing aerospace industry.

Experiences like NASA CTE Day give students the chance to see possibilities they may not have considered before and to better understand how the skills they are learning today can shape where they go tomorrow.

Cleveland High School CTE is grateful to NASA Marshall Space Flight Center and the NASA CTE Day organizers for welcoming students and providing such a meaningful opportunity to learn, ask questions and imagine what could come next.