A Stackable Learning Experience from Kindergarten to Career 

At the Advanced Composites Institute, our K–12 programs are designed as a stackable learning experience that guides students from early STEM exploration to hands-on workforce training and industry certification. 

• K–5: Build STEM language, foundational science concepts, and problem-solving skills through hands-on learning 
• 6–8: Explore advanced manufacturing and composites while gaining awareness of STEM careers 
• 9–12: Engage in real-world training, industry exposure, and certification opportunities  

Each stage builds on the last, creating a clear pathway that develops knowledge, confidence, and career direction in advanced manufacturing and composites. 

Workshops (Grades 9–12)

• High School Composite / Manufacturing Workshops: 3–8 hours

  Workshops are hosted at ACI and typically booked through a school CTE teacher, counselor, or career coach. Students are introduced to aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and engineering while exploring related career opportunities and ACI pathways. Activities are tailored based on the time available

• Jr. Technician Trainings: 6-8 hours per day; 2–4 days, customizable to needs

  Students participate in more advanced, hands-on training focused on workforce readiness, including safety, tool use, material handling, and standardized manufacturing processes. This training goes deeper than workshops and is designed to build technical skills aligned with industry expectations and ACE certification pathways.

• Academic / CTE Classroom Training: 2–6 hours

  Hands-on training is delivered during a class period or block within CTE courses such as engineering or advanced manufacturing. Students apply engineering concepts through hands-on practice, working through the engineering design process. Depending on the audience, students may use tools such as SolidWorks, ACE materials, and/or composite materials like carbon fiber.

• High School Internships (ages 16+): Minimum of 40 hours of participation per semester.

  Students work alongside engineers and composite technicians in a real-world environment, supporting projects and developing transferable skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. They gain direct, hands-on experience in aerospace and advanced manufacturing career pathways.

Engagement (Grades K–12)

• K–5 STEM Activities / Field Trips: 2–4 hours 

  Students are introduced to STEM concepts such as materials, structures, and how things are made, including basic ideas related to advanced manufacturing and composites. This experience builds excitement for learning and lays a foundation for future STEM pathways.

• Classroom Visits (grades 6–12): 1–3 hours

  Introducing students to Mississippi State University’s ACI, we connect classroom learning to real-world applications while exploring engineering and industry career pathways. Students gain exposure to materials, composites, manufacturing processes, and the workforce skills needed for careers in aerospace and advanced manufacturing.

• ACI Lab Tours (grades 6–12): 1–3 hours

  Students explore ACI lab environments while gaining an overview of composites and additive manufacturing. They observe equipment, materials, and real-world processes, see where students train and intern, and learn how projects move from design to production.

Outreach (Grades K–12)

• Career Fairs/ Aviation Events:

  We highlight careers in aerospace, engineering, and advanced manufacturing, including aviation pathways, and showcase how composites are used in aircraft and related systems. Students engage with ACI team members and industry representatives to learn about career options, education requirements, and the skills needed to succeed.

• Community STEM Events:

  These local school or community-based events engage students and families through demonstrations and discussions focused on advanced manufacturing and composites. The goal is to build broad awareness and interest in STEM pathways.

Teachers (Adult / Support Category)

• K-12 Educator Trainings: 4–8 hours

  We equip educators with a practical understanding of advanced manufacturing and composites, helping them bring real-world context into the classroom. This supports curriculum alignment, strengthens STEM pathways, and connects students to workforce opportunities and training at ACI.

Interested in learning more?

Contact Program Manager, Jennifer Smith, at jsmith@aci.msstate.edu 

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