15 October 2017, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates:  A new generation of space leaders and scientists are set to be inspired by Next Gen Aerospace - a new programme which comes as part of preparations towards the Global Aerospace Summit 2018, to be held in Abu Dhabi. Next Gen Aerospace Programme is dedicated to youth engagement and education, inviting students to a range of activities to develop skills and learn about opportunities within the aerospace sector. 

The Next Gen Aerospace Programme includes a University Roadshow, Summit Focus Days and a Young Space Leaders initiative. The Programme will promote the importance of STEM education to nationals and residents of the UAE and contribute to nationwide efforts of workforce Emiratisation. it will also encourage higher education bodies from the UAE to produce and present academic papers on space and aerospace topics, highlight and reward the best STEM teachers and allow industry to play a part in developing local talent. 

The University Roadshow is an important element of the Next Gen Programme. It starts in October and culminates during the Global Aerospace Summit with an additional day dedicated to students from the region, as well as young professionals. Astronauts, space technologists, engineers and futurists will all form part of the speakers who will address the young Emiratis and youth from the region during the roadshow.  

In October the University Roadshow marked the celebration of the World Space Week and American Cinema by hosting the Emmy-award winning filmmaker Michael Barnett and screening ‘The Mars Generation’ from 5-11 of October. This initiative comes in partnership with the US embassy in Abu Dhabi as well as the US consulate in Dubai, American Film Showcase and the US Space and Rocket Center. The Center’s CEO, Dr. Deborah Barnhart attended the event and gave the youth an opportunity to ask questions on the space industry and the experiences of space explorers. 

Oisin Commane, Managing Director, SMG Aerospace, the organizers of the summit, commented: “The aerospace and space industries thrive on talent.

Organisations across the UAE and the wider world are looking for the brightest and best STEM students and graduates to drive the future of their aerospace, space and satellite businesses. Next Gen is an ongoing programme that enables stakeholders to help develop talent in the UAE, and acts as a platform to highlight the best young people to potential employers enabling them to build their careers.”