Skip To Main Content

MISD student, alumnae speak at aerospace conference

MISD student, alumnae speak at aerospace conference

MISD student, alumnae speak at aerospace conference

Goddard 8th grader, LHS grad selected for prestigious panel

January 13, 2025 — The SciTech Forum in Orlando, Florida had a distinctly West Texas feel last week, as one current and one former Midland ISD student served as panelists at the annual event put on by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA). The forum brings together thousands of experts, researchers, and young innovators from around the globe to share cutting-edge advancements and ideas in aerospace.

MISD was represented by Goddard Junior High School 8th grader Andrew Stubbs, and recent Legacy High School graduate Brianna Ortiz. Andrew and Brianna shared personal experiences, challenges, and aspirations in the world of space exploration as a part of the Higher Orbits panel.

“This achievement underscores the exceptional talent and hard work of our students and educators," said MDC Chairman Lourcey Sams. "Being featured at AIAA SciTech is a testament to Midland’s growing reputation as a hub for aerospace and academic excellence.”

The opportunity to present at AIAA SciTech came following the students' participation in the Higher Orbits Go For Launch! program. The program, supported by the Midland Development Corporation (MDC), Chevron, and the Midland Education Foundation, provides students with opportunities to develop teamwork, problem-solving, and innovative thinking skills to solve real-world aerospace challenges.

“We are grateful to Higher Orbits and the Midland Development Corporation for providing this amazing STEM education opportunity for our students," said Jeff Horner MISD's executive director for Career and Technical Education. “We are incredibly proud of Brianna and Andrew for their accomplishments and representation of Midland ISD on a national stage.”

Andrew Stubbs has shown an interest in aviation since his first airplane flight at age five. Now at 13, Andrew sees the SciTech Forum as an opportunity to explore the aerospace industry more broadly, learn about emerging companies, and connect with potential colleges and industry leaders. Andrew first got involved with Higher Orbits when he participated in Go For Launch! last fall.

Brianna Ortiz, now a freshman at Texas A&M, has long dreamed of engaging in the space industry. Her involvement in Higher Orbits began in 2021, and has opened doors to various aerospace opportunities around the world. Brianna hopes to continue building connections and exploring future career and internship possibilities within the aerospace sector.

"We are over the moon that our orbits crossed with Brianna and Andrew through Go For Launch!" said Higher Orbits presenter Michelle Lucas. "It was our pleasure to bring them to be part of our panel and share their experiences."

The AIAA SciTech Forum is the world’s largest event for aerospace research, development, and technology. Attracting over 5,000 participants annually, it provides a platform for exchanging knowledge, fostering innovation, and shaping the future of aerospace science.

Higher Orbits is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting STEM education through space-themed programs that inspire students to reach for the stars. Its flagship program, Go For Launch!, has successfully engaged students nationwide in real-world challenges, fostering a passion for space exploration and innovation.

Midland students' next opportunity for Go For Launch! is coming up February 18-19 at Legacy High School. Interested students can sign up for this free program at higherorbits.org/go-for-launch/.

###

Media Contact:
Sam Eaton
Communications Specialist
432-240-1043 | samuel.eaton@midlandisd.net

All students will graduate college, career, or military ready.

Facebook  X  Instagram