NASA Glenn Opens Applications for Free Summer Engineering Institute
NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio has opened applications for its 2026 NASA Glenn High School Engineering Institute, a free five‑day, work‑based STEM immersion program designed for rising 11th and 12th grade students who aspire to careers in aerospace engineering and technology. The announcement released March 20, 2026 invites eligible U.S. high school juniors and seniors to apply by May 1 for one of three summer sessions scheduled July 13‑17, July 20‑24 or July 27‑31, 2026 at the center’s campus, where participants will work closely with NASA engineers on authentic mission‑relevant problems.
The institute curriculum equips students with practical engineering skills through hands‑on projects based on core NASA research themes, including acoustic dampening for jet noise reduction, power management and distribution systems for future space stations, and simulated lunar rover design challenges such as developing inflatable‑free wheel prototypes. Participants will engage in the engineering design process, build and test prototypes, and collaborate with technical experts to solve real‑world aerospace problems, gaining exposure to mission content from NASA Glenn’s aeronautics and space research portfolio that underpins propulsion, power and planetary exploration technologies.
By providing an immersive introduction to engineering practice within a premier NASA research environment, the 2026 Engineering Institute reflects ongoing agency priorities to expand STEM workforce pathways and inspire the next generation of innovators. The program complements NASA’s broader portfolio of student engagement opportunities that bridge academic preparation with professional aerospace experiences, offering early career readiness and direct interaction with agency subject‑matter experts.
