On May 12, 2021, ASRC Federal sponsored the first-ever virtual Beating the Odds Foundation Quarterbacks of Life®/NASA Research Challenge, produced from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. ASRC Federal Space Operating Group President, Retired United States Navy Captain, engineer, test pilot and former NASA astronaut, Scott Altman was the keynote speaker for this year’s event.
In 2013, Beating the Odds Foundation teamed up with NASA to create a dynamic, exciting, and experiential learning opportunity that engages students in the use of a powerful Blueprint for Success and a NASA classroom research challenge. What started in 2013 has become a yearly experience for students with new and exciting research challenges.
“We are very excited to sponsor this year’s Quarterbacks of Life event alongside NASA,” said ASRC Federal President and CEO Jennifer Felix. “It is vital that we, as Americans, ensure our young people experience STEM programing that stirs their imagination and creates opportunities that will lead them to a rewarding and meaningful career in STEM.”
The event virtually brought together 97 students, ranging from 2nd grade to 12th grade, from schools in Pennsylvania, Florida, and California to participate in the challenge this year. Through the example of Altman’s life challenges and successes, students were able to learn that anything is possible.
“It’s an honor to share my story as a child dreaming of flying and becoming a pilot and then flying higher and faster as a NASA astronaut,” said Scott “Scooter” Altman, ASRC Federal Space operating group president. “It is important to me to share the successes but also the challenges I had along the way and the wonderful adventures that ultimately resulted. I’d like to encourage the next generation to think expansively about their future and boldly reach for the stars!”
