Northrop Grumman Hosts 50 Local Students for Interactive Flight Lesson

ADVISORY, Oct. 10, 2012 -- Northrop Grumman will host 50 local sixth-grade students from Annunciation Catholic School at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta for an interactive science lesson on the aerodynamics of flight and ballooning. This opportunity allows the students to gain first-hand, practical knowledge of flight from a leader in the aerospace industry.

Andrew Kwas, engineering and technology manager, Northrop Grumman Technical Services, will deliver the unique lesson. Kwas has more than 30 years of experience in the aerospace industry predominately supporting high-tech science and engineering programs at Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M. His background includes expertise in satellite development, re-entry vehicles and rocket systems, and he has worked on programs for NASA, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, the Department of Defense and foreign services, among others.

"Innovation and growth are reliant on one generation's ability to teach the next generation," said Kwas. "These students represent the future of our nation's aerospace industry, and we have an obligation to spark their interest by complementing their in-class learning with real-world physics and aeronautical knowledge."

"Science, technology, engineering and math education engages students in real-world, hands-on, minds-on projects," said Colleen Ruiz, treasurer and teacher for the New Mexico Science Teachers Association. "As science teachers, our goal is to educate and encourage students to pursue degrees in science and engineering. These fun and challenging experiences are the memorable parts of school and help them persevere through studying for the big test."

The event will be moved to the Albuquerque Balloon Museum should the weather be uncooperative: 9201 Balloon Museum Drive Northeast, Albuquerque, NM 87113. Please contact Bryce McDevitt for more details.