Jennifer Deschoff

Aviation and Aerospace Engineering is one of the fastest-growing industries in eastern North Carolina. Spirit AeroSystems Inc., a major supplier of commercial airplane assemblies and components, has recently opened a new manufacturing facility in Kinston. With the potential for up to 700 new jobs, eastern North Carolina is ramping up its education programs to ensure that young North Carolinians are prepared to take advantage of these new high-tech opportunities. Ms. Deschoff will be exposed to aerospace construction techniques, manufacturing processes, composite manufacturing and repair, and computer numerical control (CNC) machining processes as she collaborates with Mentors at Spirit AeroSystems. Lessons and activities based on the research experience will be developed, not only to teach the science and math content knowledge essential for aerospace jobs, but also to enhance students’ understanding of engineering principles and give them the skills necessary to work in 21st century team environments.