In an inspiring initiative to promote STEM education, Honeywell India has sponsored 26 students from various Indian cities, including Bengaluru, Pune, Hyderabad, and Madurai, to participate in the Honeywell Leadership Challenge Academy (HLCA) at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama. This enriching experience, held in two sessions from October 15-20 and October 22-27, 2023, hosted a diverse group of 237 students from 45 countries and 29 U.S. states and territories.

The HLCA is tailored for high school students aged 16 to 18, aiming to encourage the pursuit of careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The program encompasses a range of hands-on activities in coding, computer science, leadership, communication skills, and astronautics. Jayme Meyer, Honeywell’s Vice President of Communications, highlighted the company’s dedication to fostering future STEM talent: “For 13 years, Honeywell has sponsored students to participate in real-world STEM experiences at Space Camp, helping to build their technical, collaborative, and communication skills.”

Participants engaged in various STEM leadership challenges, including building, coding, and testing rockets, undergoing simulated astronaut training, engaging in shuttle missions, and experiencing a low-gravity moonwalk. These activities are designed to enhance their digital skills and instil teamwork and leadership qualities.

Dr. Kimberly Robinson, CEO of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, praised the program’s impact: “Through the immersive program, students learn skills and form relationships that will serve them in their lives ahead as they tackle new and unique challenges.” Additionally, Ashish Modi, President of Honeywell India, expressed the company’s commitment to nurturing young talent in India: “It’s great to see young minds from India come together for this journey. We’re committed to fostering STEM education in India and hope to inspire students as future innovators.”

Sanegha Sakhare, an Indian student participant, shared her transformative experience at the HLCA: “Participating in the Honeywell Leadership Challenge Academy was a transformative experience. It opened doors to the vast realm of science and technology, expanding my horizons.”

The selection process for the HLCA is rigorous, focusing on academic achievement and community involvement. Honeywell and its employees generously fund scholarships, covering the cost of tuition, meals, accommodations, and program materials. Since its inception in 2010, Honeywell has sponsored over 3,000 students to attend Space Camp, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to fostering future STEM leaders.