Local Teen Attends Space Camp

The Honeywell Leadership Challenge Academy (HLCA), a unique scholarship program for children of Honeywell employees ages 16-18, uses interactive technology, science-oriented workshops and team exercises to teach science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). 325 students from 35 countries and 25 U.S. states, including Findlay High School student Kayla Johnson, participated in a week-long program in Huntsville, Alabama.

Application and anticipation

Each year, several hundred students apply for admission, with entry into the program granted after a rigorous application and review process based on academic achievement and community involvement.

The application process creates much anticipation.  Johnson explained, “This application process is actually very competitive. Over 2,000 students from all around the world applied and only 300-400 are chosen… When I received the email that I would be attending I got really excited! This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and a great experience.”

A unique experience

“My favorite part from Space Camp was meeting all the people,” Johnson shared. “The people I met throughout the experience were amazing. We were put into groups and had to form a bond on the first day with kids from across the world.”

“Honeywell gave us an amazing opportunity with great people to guide us. Team Focus not only bonded within the group but with our team leaders as well.”

Future aspirations

“After High School I’m going into the medical field. I’m going to Rhodes State College in Lima to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP),” Johnson shared. “Going to Huntsville opened my eyes. Space is amazing which is why I have started looking into biomedicine or even aerospace medicine.”

“(At the camp) they pushed us saying that we were the Mars generation, and honestly I think we will make it. Brilliant kids from around the world… upon leaving Huntsville we left with so much more than a cool story. We left with friendships, information and a new look at the world around us.”

Recent Articles

Instagram