Once in a lifetime mission fuels students' passion

Several of our employee’s children suited up for an incredible mission at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama. As children of Honeywell employees working at the Kansas City National Security Campus, the students were eligible to apply to the annual Honeywell Leadership Challenge Academy. The program, commonly called Space Camp, is an intense five-day program where students between the ages of 16-18 learn what it takes to be an astronaut.

 The Kansas City-based group were among nearly 300 students selected from across the globe to attend the prestigious event. Students work as a team and confront mission scenarios that require dynamic problem solving and critical thinking. Throughout the week, students are immersed in astronaut training techniques using equipment adapted from NASA’s astronaut program. They learn about space hardware, enjoy an educational water activity and experience a spaceflight mission while learning about aerospace career opportunities. Students also use interactive technology, science-oriented workshops and team exercises to teach children leadership skills in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The program is designed to build students' leadership skills and develop their capabilities through hands-on challenges.

 To Kelsey Krstulic, the daughter of purchasing manager Tina Krstulic, Space Camp has been one of the most memorable moments of her life. She credits a rocket scientist providing a group tour as inspiring her ambitions.

 “I was interested in Space Camp because I’ve always been fascinated with space and wanted to know more about it, so this seemed like the perfect opportunity,” said Kelsey, a junior at Olathe East High School. “One of the rocket scientists told us to find a job we really love and we’ll never work a day in our life. That really stuck with me because he later went on to say he’s never worked a day in his life – I want that too!”

 In addition to learning and participating in STEM activities, Kelsey says the international friendships made were life changing. She’s been able to learn about different countries and cultures first-hand.

 “The friends I made at camp are friends still today. We’re staying in touch through social media and even though camp is over, we still talk daily,” Kelsey said.