On October 2, 20 students from Paschal Sherman Indian School and 11 students from Mountainview Elementary participated in an exciting IGNITE Field Trip to Stoke Space. The event, hosted at Stoke Space’s facility in Moses Lake, WA was filled with hands-on learning and exposure to cutting-edge aerospace technology. Volunteers from Stoke Space, including Tour Guides Spence Troop, Dan Clark, and Gabe Cruz, along with Facilitator Brittany Feldman, led students through an unforgettable day. Panelists Katherine Cruz and Sophia Yu also shared their stories, giving the students a first-hand look at career opportunities in STEM.
The day kicked off with a scavenger hunt and a tour of Stoke Space’s impressive facility, including areas where rockets are built and engines are tested. The students were captivated by the sheer scale of rocket production, with many surprised by the time and effort it takes to build just one part. The highlight for many was learning about liquid nitrogen and its ability to freeze an otter pop in just two minutes! Questions flowed freely, from “How do you build a rocket?” to “What’s the best part of your job?” The volunteers at Stoke Space provided inspiring advice, encouraging students to pursue careers in STEM, and reassuring them that everyone has to start somewhere. The enthusiasm from both schools was clear, with Educators noting how the experience helped break down barriers for young girls and gender-diverse students interested in STEM, sparking newfound confidence and excitement.
“This event inspired me by reminding me that women can do the same thing as men and that STEM is for everyone. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.”
5th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today inspired me to build rockets and to become more confident.”
5th Grade IGNITE Student
“This event gave me a new perspective on STEM, and it looks fun.”
7th Grade IGNITE Student
Today’s event inspired me when the panelist shared about their experiences.”
7th Grade IGNITE Student
STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...
75%
INTERESTED IN STEM
75%
KNOW MORE ABOUT STEM CAREERS & THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN STEM
68%
FEEL MORE CONFIDENT
IN PURSUING STEM
69%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Additional Student Feedback:
“I learned about the rocket engine and the people there.” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“It was great seeing how rockets work and seeing one in person. I loved the presentation with the liquid nitrogen and Otter Pops.” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event inspired me because I learned that not everything is 100% serious. I learned that the employees have fun bingo nights. My favorite thing I learned was that employees can be friends, and they can have fun nights.” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me to not be afraid to have a dangerous job, and that everything is for boys and girls. I learned that liquid oxygen exists and you can freeze something in less than 3 minutes.” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me by reminding me that women can do the same things as men, and that STEM is for everyone. No one can tell you otherwise. My favorite thing I learned today was that frozen tomatoes shatter if you drop them from a height. Thank you to everyone who helped.” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“I think it made me want to try this. You explained it well. My favorite part was learning about how everything works. Thank you, people.” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me by how brave people are. Being on-site was my favorite.” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me by teaching me more about STEM. I also learned that learning can be fun and you get to work with engines. My favorite thing was the nitrogen. I liked how cool it looked when you dropped it.” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event inspired me by teaching me more about engines. My favorite thing I learned is about rockets. I thought they were cool.” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“I want to do art for space stations, like rocket plans or merch. It was all interesting and fun! How could I choose?” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me to build rockets. It inspired me to become more confident. My favorite thing I learned today is how to do all the demos.” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“It was cool learning about rockets and looking at your rocket. About rockets and looking at your creation.” – 5th Grade IGNITE Student
“It was fun. The questions were fun to hear. The tomato was fun to watch. It was fun to learn.” – 6th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me by helping me learn more. I liked looking at the engine.” – 6th Grade IGNITE Student
“It put me in the perspective of STEM, and it looks fun. When they showed us how cooled it gets, it boils.” – 7th Grade IGNITE Student
“The event inspired me when they talked about their experiences. My favorite thing I learned today was about the engine.” – 7th Grade IGNITE Student
“I learned some things I didn’t know about today. My favorite thing today was seeing the engine.” – 7th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me that boys and girls can do whatever they want. I learned about rockets.” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“The event inspired me because when they were talking, they didn’t think they would do anything related to what they do now. My favorite thing was the engine.” – 9th Grade IGNITE Student
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- Brittany Feldman
- Katherine Cruz
- Spence Troop
- Dan Clark
- Gabe Cruz
- Brittany Feldman
- Katherine Cruz
- Sophia Yu
- Alan Johnson
- David Hilts-Hoskins
- Alex Ignacio-Gamez
- Tyler Pettigrew
- Brigida Ruis
- Stacey de Wet
About IGNITE Worldwide:
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at igniteworldwide.org.