DALLAS—A model-rocket launch marked the end of a unique summer program at the University of North Texas at Dallas Aug. 11. 

Nine local public school students in the Experience Aviation STEM Academy at UNT Dallas launched three model rockets in front of a cheering crowd of family and university staff, despite the Texas heat. Students assembled and painted the rockets the previous day. 

The students spent the past four weeks using a flight simulator and learning about aviation and rockets in the summer course. The program ended Aug. 11 with the rocket launch followed by a reception. 

In partnership with Experience Aviation Inc. of Opa Locka, Fla., UNT Dallas hosted the program for middle and high school students July 19 through Aug. 11. Designed by Capt. Barrington Irving, the youngest person ever and first African American to fly solo around the world, the purpose of the program is to motivate youth and address the shortage of technically skilled professionals in aviation, aerospace and related career fields. 

The University of North Texas at Dallas is a 21st century teaching institution and a component of the University of North Texas System. The University’s goal is to train citizens to be productive and lead in a global environment and to promote the values of virtue, civility, reasoning and accountability.

Instructor Alejandro Sealey and students in the Experience Aviation STEM Academy at the University of North Texas at Dallas watch as their classmate launches a rocket they assembled Aug. 11.