STEAM—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics
STEAM is a component of high-quality Out-of-School Time (OST) programming. It equips young people with skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and innovation. Integrating STEAM into OST matters as it offers hands-on, engaging learning experiences outside the traditional classroom. These experiences not only deepen understanding but also spark curiosity and long-term interest in STEAM careers. OST programs can effectively engage with STEAM by partnering with local STEAM professionals, offering project-based activities, and creating inclusive environments that encourage exploration and experimentation. At MASP, we highlight our continued partnership with Million Girls Moonshot and disseminate resources and information to share with OST practitioners.
Million Girls Moonshot
The Michigan Afterschool Partnership is proud to be a part of the Million Girls Moonshot initiative, working to inspire and prepare the next generation of innovators by engaging one million more girls in STEAM learning opportunities through afterschool and summer programs over the next five years.
The Million Girls Moonshot will not only allow girls to envision themselves as future innovators, but it will increase the quality of out-of-school STEAM learning opportunities for all young people, particularly underserved and underrepresented youth.
Million Girls Moonshot’s Flight Crew
The Flight Crew features remarkable youth from across the country. Motivated by their impactful STEAM experiences beyond the classroom, these young leaders are currently working in their communities to break down stereotypes and spark their peers' curiosity in STEAM.
2025 Flight Crew Members from Michigan
Sahiba
10th grade
Interested in robotics
“Know that every path is forged uniquely – each step you take is a puzzle piece in your life. Think about what you’re truly passionate about – what problems do you find most pressing in your community? Take your mind and your heart, and go achieve the ‘impossible.’ If you can hope something happens, you can strive to make it happen!”
Jackson
8th grade
Interested in engineering and robotics
“I discovered my passion for science and problem solving at my school’s STEM club. The teacher running it explained that it would be good for me to be involved in some other activities such as the chief science officer opportunity and more. From there I started running the STEM clubs. Then, last summer I went to a Michigan tech summer youth program and we spent a whole week designing prosthetics and solutions to problems. That was when I discovered my passion for helping people and designing.”
Kanishkar
11th grade
Interested in engineering and robotics
“Being part of my school’s robotics team inspired me to start building my own website to teach astronomy and astrophysics. It inspired me to start teaching others about STEM courses, and to spark a passion they will pursue. An important factor to consider is being there, and genuinely experiencing STEM yourself since watching may inspire but it will never motivate. In my future, I can see myself not only chasing my passion but also just spreading it to others, as the beauty of STEM may be hidden.”
Caiyla
11th grade
Interested in engineering and health & medicine
“Outside of school STEM has shaped me into being more outspoken and collaborative. For example, in the summer of 2024 I participated in the SMASH program. Through this experience I have learned that it is okay to not know, and that learning is a process of continuous trial and error. STEM has opened the door to my interest in aviation and aerospace engineering. At school, I am currently studying aviation and plan on obtaining my private pilot certificate.”