Apply for STEM Next Flight Crew 2027 – National Youth Leadership Program

Application Deadline: October 29, 2026

About the Program

The STEM Next Flight Crew is a national youth ambassador program of STEM Next featuring remarkable young leaders who represent their states, show what’s possible, and spark their peers’ curiosity in STEM. This national STEM ambassador program for teens highlights the power of afterschool and summer STEM learning by amplifying youth voices from across the country. Selected Flight Crew members represent their states, take their STEM stories to regional and national stages, build leadership and public speaking skills, explore STEM careers, and connect with an incredible community of young STEM leaders. Since its debut in 2022, the Flight Crew has been recognized by NASA, The National STEM Festival, SXSW EDU and more.

Benefits of the Program

• Grow as a Leader: Strengthen your communication, leadership and public speaking skills through six months of programming designed to help you become a confident youth ambassador
• Build Your Network: Connect with STEM-minded teens from across the country, receive mentorship from Flight Crew alumni and meet professionals working across STEM fields
• Share Your Story: Represent your state while helping others discover the value of afterschool and summer STEM through speaking engagements, media opportunities and digital storytelling
• Discover What’s Next: Take part in exclusive virtual and in-person experiences, explore STEM careers and earn a $500 stipend upon successfully completing the program
• Receive training in public speaking, social media, and leadership development to grow as confident ambassadors for afterschool STEM
• Get resume and interview coaching, and connect with mentors and career role models who help them navigate their own STEM journeys

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the Flight Crew, youth applicants must meet these requirements:

• Youth must be 13–18 years old at the time of the official submission deadline
• Youth must reside in the United States
• Youth must be a participant or have participated in an out-of-school program, club, or other extracurricular activity focused on STEM
• Youth must be willing to share their STEM stories publicly

Program Timeline

• January – June 2027: Flight Crew members build leadership, communication, and advocacy skills through coaching, mentorship, and real-world experience
• Selected Flight Crew members can expect to be notified in December 2026

Flight Crew Alumni: Alumni Leader Opportunity

Former Flight Crew members are invited to apply to serve as 2027 Alumni Leaders. Alumni Leaders support the new cohort, represent the Flight Crew at events and through outreach, and take on leadership roles based on their interests, strengths and program needs.

• Stipend: $1,000
• Duration: January – June 2027
• Eligibility: Open to Flight Crew alumni

How to Apply

Applications for the 2027 STEM Next Flight Crew must be submitted by 11:59 PM EST on October 29, 2026. Interested applicants should complete the online application form. The application asks for basic information about the applicant and their STEM experience.

Click Here to apply