Innovating with NASA: Students Leading the Way in STEM & Space Exploration
INNOVATION TRACK / CAMPFIRE
ROOM 312-313 / APR. 8 / 1:50 PM - 2:15 PM
About this session
Our session offers an interactive look at how Des Moines high school students are solving real-world challenges through NASA’s App Development Challenge (ADC). This engaging session highlights how young innovators from North High School, Roosevelt High School, and Virtual High School are designing a 3D application to visualize Artemis II, NASA’s first crewed mission to the Moon in over 50 years.
The team leveraged Urban Dreams’ E-Sports Lab as their home base, a state-of-the-art facility that provided the tools and space needed to collaborate effectively. Inspired by the support of their community, these students chose to give back by hosting a 3D modeling camp, empowering younger students to explore STEM and technology in hands-on ways.
Attendees will explore the step-by-step process these students followed, from brainstorming and coding to collaborating with NASA engineers. Real-world examples, including live demonstrations of 3D modeling and coding elements, will provide insight into how the team tackled technical hurdles and leveraged cutting-edge technologies.
The students will also share strategies for engaging youth in STEM, fostering community involvement, and creating opportunities for students to shine.
Key takeaways
1. Real-world problem solving
2. Interactive learning
3. Importance of investing in our youth
Speakers
Jefrey Allen
Lead UI/UX & Game Developer
North High School
Experienced professional in cybersecurity and software development with technical expertise and interpersonal skills. Committed to delivering quality results in dynamic settings through continuous learning and passion for cybersecurity.
Moss Louvan
Lead Game Developer
DSM Virtual High School
I gained hands-on AI experience as a contracted worker at Principal Financial Group, which now informs my work as a Lead Game Developer. As a NASA 2024 App Development Challenge winner, I am passionate about and specialize in AI and game development, building AI-driven solutions and Unreal Engine simulations to solve real-world problems.
Champ-Pacifique Mukiza
Lead Game Developer
North High School
Passionate about business, software engineering, and videography. I recently won NASA’s App Development Challenge. As the co-founder of Mukiza Media, I produce content ranging from individual shoots to large-scale events. When I worked at Principal Financial Group, my team and I programmed, designed, and developed machine learning application solutions. Additionally, I interned at Iowa State University, where I contributed to neutrino physics research.
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