The federal government has designated a Colorado college to be one of just seven NASA Space Hubs, awarding it $1.3 million over the next three years to create career pathways for learners to become skilled technicians in the state’s booming aerospace industry.
This selection comes as Americans’ interest in space exploration is once again taking off, fueled by the Artemis moon missions that Colorado companies such as Lockheed Martin Space and United Launch Alliance are involved in heavily. And it comes as Gov. Jared Polis and state business leaders continue to boost Colorado’s workforce-development system by giving students more pathways into good-paying careers, particularly those careers that don’t require four-year degrees.
The NASA Space Hub designation goes specifically to Arapahoe Community College and its Colorado Space Institute, which is set to begin offering an first-of-its-kind Associate of Applied Science degree in Space Science Technology beginning in the fall of 2027. The degree will focus on preparing students to work in aerospace through courses that include computer-aided design, Python programming, technical writing, business and data ethics and specialized soldering certifications for aerospace applications.
What being a NASA State Hub means
NASA, which has seemingly never faced a shortage of people wanting to be astronauts, launched its state hubs program because the industry needs more of the professionals who can get those explorers into space — welders, electricians, machinists, and other highly trained workers who use advanced technical skills in their occupations. Elaine Ho, associate administrator for NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement, said in a Wednesday news release that the need for technical workers is “urgent” and explained that the state hubs will act as conveners for employers and educational institutions to boost this workforce…