SEATTLE – The PPG Industries Foundation has donated $5,000 to the Future of Flight Foundation (FoFF) to support a program that exposes local students to various STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) careers and challenges them to master cutting-edge solutions for various scientific concepts.
The grant was made on behalf of the PPG Industries’ Seattle Application Support Center (ASC), part of the company’s aerospace business.
The Future of Flight Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation with the vision to be the leading center of learning and innovation in science, technology and aviation. The foundation’s mission is to inspire lifelong learning and innovation in science, technology, engineering and math through engaging exhibits and programs. Founded in 2003, the foundation has operated the Future of Flight Aviation Center since its opening in 2005 through an operator’s agreement with Snohomish County and The Boeing Co.
“We are truly grateful for PPG’s continued support in providing our local students with the opportunity to take part in STEM-focused programs,” said Barry Smith, executive director of the FoFF. “This funding will give more students experiences that directly push them to collaborate as a team, work through the scientific process and ultimately become our future innovators.”
The FoFF will host a different class of students each day to experience a condensed version of its Flights of Innovation program. The program uses scenario-based learning that encourages students to become innovators. It is part of the FoFF’s initiative to provide commercial aviation-related programs that inspire innovative thinking and exploration to find solutions to critical global issues, officials said.
“PPG is strongly committed to supporting the communities where our employees work and live, especially through educational programs that encourage students to think critically, solve complex problems and begin to evolve into the next generation of scientists and engineers,” said Jeff Masiwchuk, PPG business manager for the Seattle ASC. “As an aerospace technology innovator, PPG is honored to support the Future of Flight Foundation as it provides engaging, exciting opportunities for students to learn about aerospace-related concepts.”
For more information: PPGFoundation.com, FutureOfFlight.org