Airway Science for Kids

Our Mission

Airway Science for Kids creates equity through aviation STEAM* education.

* Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math

Who we are

Airway Science for Kids, Inc. (ASK) is a nonprofit that aims to remove barriers for children and youth systematically excluded from STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) education and careers. Founded as a nonprofit in 1992, ASK engages youth of color and low-income youth in unique opportunities to learn about STEAM through the exciting world of flight.

Our founder, Bob Strickland, was a leader in Portland’s African American community who saw aeronautics as a tool to capture the imaginations of youth at critical ages and transitions. Today, ASK’s mission is to create equity through aviation STEAM education. We draw strength from our unique approach to closing the opportunity gap for historically underserved children in the fields of aeronautics and STEAM, from our strong base of community support, and our culturally responsive board and staff.

ASK provides…

• Programs for kids who typically don’t participate in STEAM education include kids of color, kids living on low incomes, girls, and other kids who may face barriers, where all kids are welcome.

• Age-appropriate programs for youth in pre-school through college. Our programs include after-school programs, camps, career and technical education opportunities, family events, and an opportunity for high school students to build a real plane. More about our programs on our website at airsci.org.

• Our curriculum and technical assistance to groups around the country and the world that offer youth aviation STEAM education.

  Programs in Portland, Hillsboro, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington.

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