2026 NDSGC Affiliates Meeting Recap: Innovation, Inspiration, and the Future of STEM
The North Dakota Space Grant Consortium (NDSGC) was proud to host the 2026 Affiliates Meeting this spring at North Dakota’s Gateway to Science in Bismarck, North Dakota. The annual event brought together students, educators, researchers, faculty, STEM professionals, and affiliate members from across the state for a day focused on innovation, collaboration, and the future of space exploration.
From inspiring keynote speakers and professional development sessions to hands-on STEM activities and student recognition, this year’s meeting showcased the incredible impact of the NDSGC community and the growing momentum of STEM initiatives across North Dakota.
Welcoming Affiliates from Across North Dakota
This year’s Affiliates Meeting was hosted at North Dakota’s Gateway to Science, creating the perfect environment for creativity, learning, and connection. The day welcomed attendees from affiliate institutions and organizations across the state, all united by a shared passion for STEM education, research, and workforce development.
The NDSGC leadership team was proudly in attendance throughout the event, including Director Dr. Caitlin Milera, Associate Director Laurie Salander, Assistant Director Dr. Dawn Cleveland, and Office Manager Grecia Flaws of the Space Grant team who work year-round to support opportunities for students and educators across North Dakota.
NDSGC STEM Ambassadors Sarah Frankson, Anna Stambaugh, and Malissa Reinhardt also participated in the event, helping facilitate activities and connect with students and attendees throughout the day.
A Special Visit from Senator John Hoeven
One of the highlights of the day was a special appearance from Senator John Hoeven of North Dakota. Senator Hoeven spoke to attendees about the future of lunar exploration, innovation in the aerospace industry, and North Dakota’s growing role in shaping the future of planetary and habitat development.
His message emphasized the importance of investing in STEM education and supporting the next generation of scientists, engineers, researchers, and explorers. Attendees left inspired by the reminder that the work happening in North Dakota today is helping contribute to the future of space exploration on a national level.
Professional Development and Career Readiness
Returning again this year, a representative from Job Service North Dakota provided attendees with valuable career preparation resources and professional development guidance.
John from Job Service North Dakota worked directly with students on resume reviews, interview preparation, and strategies for entering today’s competitive workforce. The session quickly became a favorite among attendees, helping students build confidence while preparing for internships, graduate opportunities, and future careers in STEM-related industries.
Student Research, Innovation, and Collaboration
Throughout the day, awardees and affiliates presented poster sessions showcasing the incredible work being accomplished across North Dakota institutions. Presentations featured NASA internships, undergraduate and graduate research, fellowship projects, and competition team initiatives spanning a wide range of STEM disciplines. This year also marked the first-ever poster competition for presenters!
Attendees also participated in a collaborative panel discussion featuring STEM Ambassadors, student research fellows, and competition team members. Audience members had the opportunity to ask questions, learn about ongoing projects, and hear firsthand about experiences working within NASA-supported programs and research environments.
The Affiliates Meeting continues to serve as an important platform for students to share their accomplishments while building connections with fellow researchers, educators, and industry professionals.
Mission Moon: Hands-On STEM in Action
Of course, the event would not be complete without interactive STEM activities.
This year’s “Mission Moon” experience allowed attendees to test their creativity and teamwork through drone flying activities and lunar habitat design challenges. Teams collaborated to build imaginative future habitats while exploring the kinds of engineering and problem-solving skills needed for long-duration space missions.
The activity space quickly filled with innovation, laughter, and plenty of friendly competition as teams brought their lunar concepts to life.
Recognizing Excellence
The NDSGC also recognized the outstanding accomplishments of students and affiliates through several awards and recognitions presented during the meeting. Honors included poster presentation awards, scholarship recognitions, and acknowledgments celebrating the dedication and achievements of students contributing to STEM research and outreach across the state.
These recognitions reflect the continued growth of North Dakota’s STEM community and the remarkable work being accomplished through NDSGC-supported opportunities.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 Affiliates Meeting once again demonstrated the powerful impact of collaboration, mentorship, and hands-on learning experiences across North Dakota’s STEM network. As students continue conducting research, leading outreach efforts, and preparing for careers in aerospace and science, the future of innovation within the state remains incredibly bright.
We had such a blast hosting the 2026 Affiliates Meeting and celebrating the students, educators, and mentors who make the NDSGC community so special. Thank you to everyone who attended, presented, volunteered, and supported this year’s event. The North Dakota Space Grant Consortium looks forward to continuing to award, inspire, and support the next generation of explorers, innovators, researchers, and leaders who are helping shape the future of STEM — both here in North Dakota and beyond.
