EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. – What begins as curiosity in a classroom can become innovation in a lab — especially when guided by the right mentors.
Eglin interns shared the results of their six-week Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics journey July 31 during a project showcase for 96th Test Wing senior leadership and community partners.
The event, co-hosted by the 96 TW and the University of Florida’s Research and Engineering Education Facility, supports Department of Air Force Leadership Experience Growing Apprenticeships Committed to Youth program by connecting students with mentorship and offering Air Force career opportunities.
“The interns demonstrated an impressive level of innovation, professionalism, and potential,” said Brig. Gen. Mark Massaro, 96th TW commander. “The [LEGACY] program is a fantastic opportunity — not just for the students, but for the Air Force. It plays an important role in developing the STEM talent we need for the future of our mission.”
Approximately 18 interns participated in the summer program, showcasing projects spanning a wide range of STEM disciplines. They worked on a variety of technical projects, including research in polymers, explosives, robotics and engineering design during the program.
One of the intern teams developed an interactive dashboard, which the 96th Range Group is now implementing to streamline workflow.
“We’re really proud and excited to have created something that will actually be used by the 96th Range Group,” said Krista Laviolette, a senior mechanical engineering student at the University of West Florida. “It feels rewarding to know our work can directly contribute to real Air Force missions.”
Mentors from the 96th TW engineering and test community guided the interns and provided hands-on experience.
“Over just six weeks, these students demonstrated advanced design, fabrication, testing, and presentation skills — skills you don’t typically see until much later in education,” said Pete Belmain, a 96th TW test engineer. “The program strengthens the Department of the Air Force’s workforce development efforts by offering internships, scholarships, and employment pathways.”
For more information on the LEGACY STEM program or to inquire about becoming a mentor at eglin.legacy@gmail.com.