Aerospace Joins "Change the Equation"

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. (Sept. 20, 2010) -- The Aerospace Corporation announced today that it has joined Change the Equation (CTEq), an initiative to cultivate widespread literacy in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Former astronaut and Aerospace trustee Dr. Sally Ride is one of the founders of the program, and Dr. Wanda Austin, president and chief executive officer of Aerospace, was among the first CEOs to commit to the initiative.

"I am passionate about developing future leaders in math, science, technology and engineering," said Ride. "Our national security and the future prosperity of our nation depend on the ability of the United States to produce graduates who are proficient in these fields."

Change the Equation is bringing together 100 companies across multiple sectors, all of which are dedicated to preparing students for STEM-related careers as an investment in their business, the economy and our democracy. Through innovative and effective company-led programs, members will work to encourage capable and enthusiastic STEM-literate graduates.

"Change the Equation is a perfect fit for The Aerospace Corporation," said Austin. "We have initiatives such as The Herndon Memorial Science Competition, and our employees have long been involved in mentoring and educational outreach; but this provides us the opportunity to connect with other companies interested in improving STEM education on a national scale."

CTEq evolved as a result of the first Educate to Innovate Event in November 2009, when President Obama named five leading business and thought leaders (Sally Ride, Craig Barrett, Ursula Burns, Glen Britt, and Antonio Perez) to head an effort to improve American student participation and performance in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Carnegie Corporation of New York and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation provided challenge grants to launch the organization.

Contact Pam Keeton, 703-812-0648 or Pamela.V.Keeton@aero.org.