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Eglin STEM pipeline is striking it rich

  • Published
  • By 96th Test Wing Public Affairs staff

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. – The U.S. Air Force’s largest Major Range Test Facility Base (MRTFB) Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medical (STEM+M) recruitment pipeline is tapped and flowing to recruit, retain, and develop future scientists, engineers, and skilled technical workers.

The Innovating Academic Excellence through Partnership Program, in partnership with the USAF Leadership Experience Growing Apprenticeships Committed to Youth (LEGACY) program, offers Craftsmen Camps for students aged 11-15 years-old, Junior Apprentice programs for children aged 16 years-old and older, and an Apprentice program for high-school graduates and college students.

“We knew we needed to work hard and fast in developing STEM+M partnerships with our Department of the Air Force STEM partners and local education agencies if we wanted to stay in the game,” said Elaine LaJeunesse, 96th Test Wing School Liaison program manager and K-12 STEM lead. "We want folks to know it’s there and can be used."

Each program is fully funded and geared toward developing interest in STEM by placing students in real-world paid internships, and polishes students’ professional skills for a smooth transition to the STEM workforce. 

“Our partnership with the 96th Test Wing has been instrumental in taking our LEGACY program to the next level,” said Dr. Kim Gasaway, Eglin LEGACY Site Lead. “We’ve watched several of our students get selected for the Premiere College Internship Program (PCIP) and one received a full scholarship under the Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) program. We are planning to add two more SMART applicants and one PCIP for 2025.” 

Elizabeth Vanderkooy recently transitioned to the PCIP program in Eglin’s 896th Test System Support Squadron. She was a former LEGACY Apprentice and First Robotics Champion. 

“It’s really amazing,” said Vanderkooy. “The program has given me a secure outplacement position, which means I can take my time to learn deeply and explore different opportunities within the Air Force.”

Vanderkooy is currently attending the University of Florida studying mechanical engineering. She completes the PCIP program upon graduation and is placed into the Palace Acquire (PAQ) Program as a mechanical engineer.

The LEGACY program aims to foster and educate children in local communities with an interest in contributing to the U.S. Air Force’s mission by offering hands-on experience, mentorship, and a clear pathway to a career in STEM fields.

Another student to benefit from the LEGACY developmental and scholarship programs is Owen Perry a 2024 Rocky Bayou Christian School graduate who received a full college scholarship through the SMART Program to study computer engineering at the University of Alabama.  He is also set to work in Eglin’s 96th Range Control Squadron.

“Our LEGACY program is fully committed to providing our students with an opportunity to grow, develop and hopefully transition in the STEM workforce where they can make an impact on the future of our Nation,” said Gasaway. 

“I want kids to know that the 96th TW is not just a place to work, we are a family,” said LaJeunesse. “Young local talent can find a litany of STEM related job opportunities in the TW. We are passionate about making an impact and we want young students to know they can start with us.”

For those interested in applying for the STEM LEGACY program or would like to be a mentor, reach out to LaJeunesse at 850-882-4319.

For more interest in STEM programs and academic activities go to AF LEGACY