Cleared For Takeoff: How ARSF Is Helping SystemsGo Launch the Next Generation of Engineering Talent

Igniting Student Interest in STEM Education for Almost 30 Years

Convinced there was a better way to educate students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), Texas A&M alumnus and teacher Brett Williams began laying the groundwork for what would become SystemsGo in 1996. Drawing on his background in science education and experience in the private sector, Brett turned his Principles of Technology class into an opportunity for students to engage in hands-on research, design, and development within engineering and technology. With support from school administrators and the community, his students began designing, building, and launching their own rockets—paving the way for the creation of SystemsGo.

Founded in 2004 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, SystemsGo provides a sequenced engineering curriculum to high schools in Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Oklahoma, and Abu Dhabi. The program introduces students to fundamental research, development, and engineering skills, challenging them to design and build rockets that are tested at one of four regional launch events. At the program’s highest level, students can design and launch rockets at White Sands Missile Range. While rockets naturally capture students’ imaginations, the true goal of SystemsGo is to encourage students to push their own boundaries and inspire them to become the innovators of tomorrow.

A Mission Aligned to Adam’s Passion and Close to His Heart

Adam Scripps was known for his love of speed, whether it involved cars, boats, or—his favorite—airplanes. He was also a skilled mechanic, knowing how to repair and build engines himself. Adam’s passion for helping young people and his deep connection to the Fredericksburg, TX community, where SystemsGo was founded, make SystemsGo an ideal partner for the Adam R. Scripps Foundation.

An Investment in Today and Tomorrow

The grant from ARSF supported two different programs at SystemsGo, intended to drive improvement in the short and long term.

First, the grant supported significant infrastructure and equipment upgrades at the Central Texas launch site, including the installation of a water well to provide running water. This addition improved fire suppression capabilities, sanitation, and supported the Fredericksburg High School Culinary Arts class food truck that serves attendees and volunteers at the launch event. Other improvements included the purchase of two high-capacity generators to provide reliable electricity, new equipment and subscriptions to ensure internet connectivity and Wi-Fi at remote locations, and two side-by-side UTVs to facilitate rocket recovery and enable staff to move quickly between Mission Control and the launch pad, improving safety response times. Additionally, a new Fill & Fire System—featuring launch control boxes, cables, and power pad distribution boxes—is being designed to require fewer cables, be easier to set up and take down, and withstand harsh weather conditions.

Second, the grant provided a three-year sponsorship to fully fund the annual costs of Rockets CTX, the oldest and largest launch event, held in Stonewall, TX.

In total, 1,023 students on 160 teams participated in the Flight Readiness Review process at SystemsGo culminating launch events in 2024.

Inspiring the Innovators of Tomorrow

Inspiring today’s students to become tomorrow’s innovation leaders is central to the mission of SystemsGo, and they have the success stories to prove it, as shown on the SystemsGo website:

“SystemsGo ignited my interest in high power rocketry. Through both technical and hands-on experience, it gave me the capability and eagerness to pursue a career in Aerospace, where I worked at SpaceX as lead test engineer. I can undeniably say that I would not have been there without SystemsGo.”  

Joshua J.

 “SystemsGo helped provide me with the skills and prepare me for the rigors and demands put upon me at the naval academy. I still apply the problem-solving skills that I learned in high school at my present job.”

Lauren C.

“SystemsGo… is hands-on, engaging, rigorous, relevant and life-changing. I literally witnessed students go from near drop-outs to getting degrees in Aerospace Engineering, and becoming rocket scientists at NASA and SpaceX. Best decision I ever made was supporting our teacher who brought us this innovative program.”  

Dr. Kevin B.

Looking Toward the Future of SystemsGo

SystemsGo is working on expansion, bringing their fully articulated engineering curriculum, teacher training, classroom support, and launch support into more schools. Parties interested in getting involved at any level are invited to contact SystemsGo by calling (830) 997-3567 or emailing [email protected].

Photo Credit: White Sands Missile Range Public Affairs