Capitol Technology University is proud to announce a new partnership with Fire Rockets, a local aerospace and rocketry program dedicated to diversity and accessibility for youth interested in STEM, to promote awareness of space engineering disciplines, education, and career opportunities.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Fire Rockets, Local Aerospace and Rocketry Program, Partners with Capitol Technology University for Space Education Opportunities
Laurel, Maryland [February 3, 2025]—Capitol Technology University and Fire Rockets have signed a memorandum of understanding agreement to promote awareness of STEM disciplines, education, and career opportunities in the aerospace arena. Robin Houston, co-founder and Executive Director of Fire Rockets, visited with Capitol Tech leadership President Bradford L. Sims, Vice President of Cyber Science Outreach and Partnerships Dr. Bill Butler, and Director of Astronautical and Space Engineering Programs Jeff Volosin to discuss the exciting ways in which this partnership could expand space education awareness and opportunities to the wider community. By leveraging shared resources, exchanging knowledge, and fostering collaboration, Capitol Tech and Fire Rockets’ collective expertise will provide our local youth with a strong foundation in this innovative and exciting field.
Robin Houston and her daughter, Charis Houston, who earned her degree in Astronautical Engineering from Capitol Tech, established Fire Rockets in 2021, ignited by a lack of diversity in the model rocketry hobby and aerospace industry. They have created an avenue to increase interest and develop opportunities for local youth from traditionally under-served and under-represented communities in the Maryland, Virginia, and DC metropolitan areas.
“Our MOU signing with this STEM-focused university recognizes the mutual benefit of encouraging middle and high schoolers to interact with students and faculty in a collegiate environment,” stated Robin Houston, Fire Rockets Executive Director. “It increases the K-12 students’ likelihood of pursuing a career in a STEM field.”
Fire Rockets also collaborates with the Future Innovative Rising Engineers & Entrepreneurs (FIRE STEM), providing middle and high school students with instruction and mentorship for regional, national, and international competitions. Fire Rockets has previously conducted Fire Rocket Challenge events on Capitol Tech’s campus. Formalizing this partnership further strengthens their shared goals.
As outlined by the agreement, Capitol Tech will provide a sponsorship donation to Fire Rockets towards their upcoming events, host rocket launch sessions throughout the academic year, and plan college workshops for Fire Rockets participants and their parents. Additionally, Capitol Tech is proud to offer a scholarship opportunity to students who participate in and successfully complete the Fire Rockets program. Fire Rockets will also be participating in select Cyber Saturday workshops, as well as Capitol Tech’s STEM Challenge event for middle through high school students.
"This partnership between Capitol Technology University and Fire Rockets exemplifies our commitment to fostering STEM education and inspiring the next generation of aerospace innovators through hands-on learning and collaboration," stated Dr. Bradford Sims, University President.
About Fire Rockets
Fire Rockets is a mother/daughter-established program dedicated to introducing middle and high school youth to the exciting world of STEM through aerospace principles, career options, model rocketry, and competitions. By providing professional expertise, workshop sessions, partnerships, and collaborations, they seek to launch the next generation of aerospace professionals through rocketry engineering learning opportunities for traditionally under-served and under-represented communities in the Maryland, Virginia, and DC metropolitan areas. For more information, visit www.firerockets.org.
About Capitol Technology University
Capitol Technology University is a leading STEM university located in Laurel, MD, near the vibrant Maryland, Virginia, and DC metropolitan technology and aerospace job corridors. The university’s mission is to educate individuals for successful professional careers in STEM research, engineering, management, and business by providing relevant learning experiences. Through industry-expert faculty, technical skills development, and innovative partnerships, Capitol Tech fosters career advancement opportunities for the evolving global community. For more information, visit www.captechu.edu.
For Media Inquiries:
Contact: Dianne O’Neill
Email: marketing@captechu.edu
Written by Erica Decker