BlueHalo Supports AFA’s STEM Programs with $10,000 Sponsorship

ARLINGTON, Va. – The Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) welcomes BlueHalo as its newest sponsor for both of AFA’s youth STEM programs, CyberPatriot and StellarXplorers. 

“We are thrilled to announce our partnership with BlueHalo, joining our valued group of supporters dedicated to advancing STEM education nationwide,” said Stuart Pettis, Director of AFA STEM Programs. “BlueHalo understands the vital role of empowering the next generation in science and technology, and we’re excited to collaborate with them in this important mission.” 

CyberPatriot is the nation’s largest youth cyber education program, and AFA’s flagship STEM program dedicated to strengthening cyber skills among American youth. In addition to the National Youth Cyber Defense Competition for high school and middle school students, the program features AFA CyberCamps, an Elementary School Cyber Education Initiative and Literature Series, a Tech Caregiver certification and community service opportunity, and CyberGenerations—a program aimed at equipping senior citizens with the skills needed to stay protected from cyber threats.  

The StellarXplorers Space STEM Program inspires K-12 students toward careers in aerospace, aviation, and other STEM disciplines critical to our nation’s future. The StellarXplorers National Space Design Competition provides specific training in the use of system simulation software, Systems Tool Kit (STK), as well as an online textbook as a curriculum supplement and study resource for online “team” quizzes given during the competition. 

BlueHalo’s donation empowers the Association to expand its outreach to more schools, enhancing our efforts to promote STEM education and continuing to grow our impact among the nation’s youth. 

“Encouraging the next generation of aerospace engineers and cybersecurity experts is critical to continuing to support the missions we face every day,” said Diek Minkhorst, SVP of Strategy and Corporate Development for BlueHalo. “We’re proud to support AFA in encouraging students to stay curious, explore new ideas, and innovate for the future. All of that is possible with a strong focus on STEM education.” 

To learn more about AFA’s CyberPatriot and StellarXplorers programs, visit their websites at: https://www.uscyberpatriot.org/ and https://www.stellarxplorers.org/. 

About AFA 

The Air & Space Forces Association is an independent, non-profit 501(c)3 association dedicated to advocating for investment and support for the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force, and for supporting Airmen, Guardians, and their Families. Founded in 1946, AFA is the single largest entity of its kind focused on air and space power. With more than 120,000 members and 200 chapters spread around the world, our mission is to promote dominant U.S. Air and Space Forces as the foundation of a strong National Defense; to honor and support Airmen, Guardians, and their Families; and to remember and respect the enduring heritage of the Air and Space Forces.