Alabama Flight Crew!
The Alabama Expanded Learning Alliance is excited to invite you to apply to become a member of the 2026 Alabama Flight Crew.
This special program is designed to promote learning in STEM, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and to inspire young people to become future leaders in these fields. As a member, you will have the opportunity to participate in engaging out of school STEM activities and experiences.
If you meet the following requirements, we encourage you to click the application link below and complete the application. There are some responses a parent will need to answer.
Applicant Requirements:
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Be between 13 and 15 years old.
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Have previously participated in an out of school program.
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Have reliable internet access to attend virtual sessions.
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Have permission from a parent or legal guardian.
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Submit one letter of recommendation from a parent, teacher, mentor, or another adult who knows you well.
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Be available for monthly virtual after school sessions from September 2026 through March 2027.
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Be able to attend the ACEA Conference in South Alabama in person on November 2, 3, and 4, 2026.
We look forward to your participation in this exciting opportunity to explore, learn, and grow in STEM!
The 2025 Alabama STEM Flight Crew
Davion
Montgomery County
KarLayshia
Montgomery County
Nia
Montgomery County
Hunter
Etowah County
Kassidy
Choctaw County
Vivian
Baldwin County
Jayni
Montgomery County
Madeline
Lee County
Zachary
Mobile County
JoElle
Montgomery County
Naomi
Wilcox County
Zariyah
Mobile County
About the Alabama Flight Crew:
In Alabama, the Expanded Learning Alliance established its first STEM Flight Crew Project, a program in which middle school students participate after the regular school day. This innovative initiative aims to transform how students engage with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Project Overview:
The STEM Flight Crew Project immerses students in hands-on learning experiences that connect classroom instruction with real-world applications. Through a variety of engaging projects, students explore essential STEM concepts, develop problem-solving skills, and understand the importance of collaboration and innovation in today’s workforce.
Benefits of the STEM Flight Crew:
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Enhanced STEM Literacy: Participants deepen their understanding of key STEM principles through interactive projects, advancing their knowledge as they progress in their education.
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Workforce Preparedness: The project exposes students to STEM careers and industry practices, helping them recognize the relevance of their studies to future job opportunities. This exposure inspires students to pursue STEM fields, which are increasingly vital in the modern economy.
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Skill Development: The project emphasizes critical skills such as teamwork, communication, and project management. These competencies are essential in any career and help students become well-rounded individuals.
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Community Engagement: The project fosters connections between students, educators, and local industry leaders. Through mentorship and collaboration, students witness the impact of STEM within their community.
Applicant Requirements:
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Age between 12 and 15 years old
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Prior or current participation in an out-of-school program
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Reliable internet access to attend virtual sessions
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Permission from a parent or legal guardian
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One letter of recommendation (from a parent, teacher, mentor, or similar)
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Availability for virtual after-school sessions from July to October 2025
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Ability to attend (in person) a conference from November 17-19, 2025