Dobbins tower takes STARBASE guests to new heights

  • Published
  • By James Branch
  • 94th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Over 25 participants of the STARBASE summer youth program experienced the air traffic control tower and weather station here July 10, 2018.

The tour was one of the many activities offered during their week long summer camp at the program’s facility at Clay National Guard Center in Marietta, Georgia. The campers discussed air traffic issues with tower personnel and discovered the many challenges weather can create during aircraft operation.

“Our program encourages students with hands-on activities,” said John McKay, Peach State STARBASE director. “Some of our many activities include drone flying, aircraft and helicopter simulators, and rocket launching.”

A Department of Defense youth program, STARBASE aims to motivate students to explore Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, and encourages the youth to set goals and achieve them.

The program encourages students to take positive actions in order to make their dreams for the future a reality. Teamwork is constantly stressed as they work together to explore, explain, elaborate and evaluate concepts.

“We help students learn about both civilian and military opportunities available to them,” said McKay. “In the future, as technology advances, we hope to expand the size of our program even more.”

In addition to their summer camps, STARBASE focuses on fifth grade elementary students during the academic school year. They serve students that are historically under-represented in STEM.

To find out more about the STARBASE youth program, contact Joy Branon at 678-569-3568 or email joy.d.brannon.nfg@mail.mil.