The JetBlue Foundation partnered with Project Scientist to introduce STEM career opportunities to girls from underrepresented communities. Project Scientist runs a summer academy for girls ages four to 12, where female STEM professionals present real-world career paths and mentor students as they explore science, technology, engineering, and math.
“Cultivating an interest in STEM at a young age is critical to a variety of career opportunities, including aviation,” said Joanna Geraghty, president of the JetBlue Foundation. “A strong STEM foundation early in a student’s academic career lays the groundwork for future success. To help the next generation of aviators take off, the JetBlue Foundation is focused on providing access and encouraging curiosity among all students.”
Earlier this month, JetBlue welcomed Project Scientist participants to Long Beach Airport for a hands-on overview of airline operations and the aviation sector. Pilots and other aviation professionals led the session, giving campers a close-up look at aircraft, flight crews, and the many career opportunities within aviation. The event also highlighted a persistent gender gap in the industry: currently, only 7 percent of U.S. pilots are women.
“For several years JetBlue has been a key supporter of our mission to educate, coach and advocate for girls with an aptitude, talent and passion for STEM,” said Sandy Marshall, CEO and founder of Project Scientist. “JetBlue’s continuing financial and educational support will help today’s campers become tomorrow’s problem solvers in science, technology, engineering and math.”
By connecting young girls with visible role models and hands-on experiences, the partnership aims to expand awareness of STEM careers and reduce barriers to entry. Early exposure to science and engineering encourages curiosity, builds confidence, and helps students envision themselves in roles that have historically lacked gender diversity. Programs like the summer academy provide practical learning, teamwork opportunities, and the mentorship needed to sustain long-term interest.
Investing in early STEM education also supports broader workforce development goals. As industries such as aviation, aerospace, and technology seek skilled workers, initiatives that nurture diverse talent from an early age help create a more inclusive pipeline of future professionals. The collaboration between the JetBlue Foundation and Project Scientist shows how corporate philanthropy and nonprofit education programs can work together to create meaningful, scalable impact.
Parents and educators who want to encourage girls’ interest in STEM can look to hands-on programs, mentorship, and community partnerships as effective strategies. By combining encouragement with accessible learning experiences, these efforts can open new possibilities and inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, pilots, and technologists.