Aerospace Education

Our squadron also has the SMART Aerospace Program in which cadets can learn from many specialized topics that pertain to STEM. This program is oriented in such a way that cadets are given a more intricate understanding of the many skills that are used in a wide variety of industries. The program gives cadets and experience of STEM and increases their interests in specialized topics, further boosting their interests, experiences, and skills for their futures.

Badges such as the Model Rocketry badge are strongly encouraged as our squadron also participates in Model Rocketry competitions outside squadron meetings. STEM and Cyber badges are also acquired by various cadets by volunteering in various STEM activities. 

The “Bud” Jackson Composite Squadron has three teams competing in CyberPatriot, the Air Force Association’s National Youth Cyber Education Program. We have two high school teams competing in the All Services Division and the middle school team competing in the Middle School Division. Out of the 16 teams in NJ (All Services), Team A (“The Cyber Wizards”) Team B (“The Shadow Hackers”) are our two high school teams. Our middle school team, named “CTRL-ALT-ELITE” comprises of middle school students and also continues to shine through in the competition. 

Similarly, our squadron is competing in StellarXplorers comprising of three competitive StellarXplorers teams with 6 members in each. StellarXplorers is a competitive Air Force Association competition that tests cadets on various aspects of systems design and spacecraft operations. The teams train themselves to solve scenarios based on orbital design, satellite design, and launch vehicle requirements.